FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The company is creating a further 15 new jobs in Widnes next month when it opens a new warehouse on the site of the former Golden Wonder crisp factory in Ditton.

After 25 years in Runcorn, Lion Foods has extensively refurbished a 75,000 sq ft warehouse at the Towngate business centre, Gavin Road.

The double expansion was welcomed by Halton's deputy mayor, Cllr Chris Loftus, as he officially opened the new Runcorn factory this week.

He said: "We are delighted that Lion Foods has chosen to expand here. New jobs are much needed in Halton."

The new facility in Davy Road marks a significant expansion in the company's 'wet foods' business, using state-of-the-art technology to produce sauces and dressings.

The latest machines which 'hot fill' jars have been installed to cope with the increasing growth of ready prepared marinades and sauces.

It will complement Lion's position as one of the UK's leading suppliers of herbs and spices to many top High Street retailers.

Dry herb and spice products are manufactured at a second site in Astmoor at Faraday Road.

Lion Foods is also planning an ambitious new product development programme, introducing many innovative products into the UK market for the first time.

Hong Kong businessman Dr James Wong, group chairman of Lion-owner Chimney Holdings, led the deputy mayor and invited guests on a guided tour of the new plant.

The latest logistic technology and IT communication equipment have been installed into the new Widnes warehouse, to be fully operational early next month.

"It will make us much more efficient," said a spokeswoman for Lion Foods. "It will make us a lot quicker, being able to deliver three days after receiving orders, instead of the current five."

Chimney Holdings has a wide diversity of interests and employs more than 10,000 people worldwide.

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