Three Scottish meat processing firms saved after Vion UK sale

The sale will secure the future of 11 sites including those in Coupar Angus, Cambuslang and Portlethen

A Midlands-based meat supplier has agreed to buy Vion's UK poultry and red meat processing businesses in the UK, securing jobs at three Scottish sites.

The 2 Sisters Food Group said the purchase will help the company meet growing demand.

The firm will take over 11 processing plants, including those in Coupar Angus, Cambuslang and Portlethen.

Last year, Vion's Dutch parent company said it was withdrawing from Britain to focus on the Netherlands and Germany.

The 2 Sisters Food Group, which is owned by Boparan Holdings Limited (BHL), said the move would secure the future of 11 sites across the UK and the jobs of 6,000 employees, while helping the firm meet growing demand and the allow expansion into the red meat industry.

The Coupar Angus site has previously been owned by Vion

Ranjit Singh, the group's chief executive, said: "We are delighted to be acquiring Vion UK's poultry and red meat businesses.

"They have faced significant uncertainty and tough trading in recent months, but today's acquisition secures a viable future.

"With the majority of the operations being in Scotland and Wales, we are delighted that the Scottish and Welsh governments are supportive of this deal and we look forward to working with them and developing a sustainable future for these businesses."

'Step forward'

He added: "This acquisition will safeguard a key supply chain for high quality British poultry and meat, offering reassurance to farmers in England, Scotland and Wales and upholding the quality and provenance that UK customers and consumers deserve.

"Our immediate focus will be to improve performance, as we have successfully done with our previous acquisitions."

Scottish Finance Secretary John Swinney said: "I welcome the decision by the 2 Sisters Food Group to buy Vion.

"Today's announcement is a significant step forward and my officials and I look forward to working with 2 Sisters over the coming months in order to secure a sustainable future for the plants in Scotland.

"This is a time of significant opportunity in building the food sector in Scotland and the involvement of 2 Sisters assists that process"

Maureen Watt, MSP for Aberdeen South and North Kincardine, has expressed her delight at the news about the plant in Portlethen.

"Safeguarding the future of the plant was essential for both the 280 employees and the local community," she said.