Light at the end of the tunnel for the Scottish pig industry

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) welcomes the announcement that Quality Pork Processers Ltd has been acquired by Browns Food Group.  The acquisition will provide the platform to build a stronger future for the Scottish pig industry.

The meat manufacturer, Browns, which operates seven sites across the UK, has secured the purchase of the Brechin-based pork processing unit, making the group the largest pork processor in Scotland.

Mairi Gougeon MSP said: “Brechin is in my local constituency, and the acquisition ensures a bright future for the rural economy and the Scottish pig sector.”

Speaking on the deal, Browns CEO, Wayne Godfrey says: “This acquisition demonstrates our deep commitment to a sustainable Scottish pig industry, for both our customers and consumers of Specially Selected Pork and Scottish Pork.”

“It provides the opportunity for Browns to process high welfare local pork for our own manufacturing sites as well as for retail, foodservice and wholesale channels. In addition, we will reduce food miles with improved logistics, efficiencies, and closer management of welfare.”

On completion of the sale, a short handover period will ensure the seamless transition of Quality Pork Processers Ltd to the Browns Food Group.

QMS Chair, Kate Rowell said: “Despite the challenges the pig industry has felt in recent times, we are confident that the strong experience Browns holds will ensure a smooth transition of the Brechin site which in the longer-term will help alleviate some of the ongoing pressures faced by the sector.

“Our priority remains to support producers of Specially Selected Pork and Scottish Pork to uphold robust whole chain assurance so that animals have the best quality of life on farm, and high standards that continue throughout the live supply chain, resulting in the highest quality product from field to fork.”

For more information on Specially Selected pork, head to: https://www.qmscotland.co.uk/campaigns/specially-selected-pork