Agri-food businesses Country Crest and Ballymaguire Foods have announced a €25m expansion of their food production facilities in Lusk that will result in the creation of over 200 jobs over the next five years.

Recruitment for the new roles at the sister companies across management, R&D, quality control, technicians, engineering, cooks and general operatives will commence immediately.

The investment will increase prepared meal producer Country Crest's food production capabilities as it seeks to build capacity and support customer growth over the next five years.

Construction has commenced on the first phase of work and is expected to be completed and operational by next summer, and the expansion will also include the establishment of a new R&D kitchen.

Michael Hoey, managing director of Country Crest, said: “This is an exciting time for our convenience food business here in Lusk, North County Dublin.

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"This is a vote of confidence in the Irish food industry, an industry that continues to thrive despite the tough economic conditions we are all experiencing at present."

Farm-to-fork producer Country Crest said that over 60% of its ingredients, including all its vegetables and proteins (chicken, beef, ham), are sourced in north Dublin.

Making the announcement, Ed Spelman, managing director and co-owner of Ballymaguire Foods, said: “We are delighted to be making this investment in our business as we continue to grow and expand our reach from our Lusk base.

"Our production capability will be greatly increased and will be mainly used to fuel the opportunities we see in both this country and mainland Europe. Our customers appreciate our agility and ability to adapt to new trends and tastes whilst using the best Irish ingredients where possible.

"Our Irish suppliers will also benefit in the future as many of our ingredients are sourced on the island of Ireland from chicken to beef and fresh vegetables.”

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien said: “This announcement is a brilliant example of pure quality and excellence in a sector where Ireland excels and especially around sustainability and producing quality clean food.

"For generations the Hoey family has employed hundreds of local people from the locality and have never been found wanting in giving back to the local community. Their success stemming from the land is to be applauded and I wish them continued success for years to come.” 

Photo: (l-r) Ballymaguire co-owners Gabriel Hoey, Edward Spelman and Michael Hoey. (Pic: Lorraine O'Sullivan)