Thomas Lyons 
The Kepak processing plant in Watergrasshill, Co. Cork, is set to experience a significant number of job losses as it winds down its supply of slow-cooked products to the UK. Kepak made the decision earlier this year to discontinue its supply of slow-cooked products to the UK on a phased basis following a comprehensive strategic review. The processor has informed its customers in the UK of this development. Kepak confirmed that the phase-out of this division of its operations would lead to job losses at the Watergrasshill plant, although the processor did not specify the number of people affected. Some affected staff will be redeployed elsewhere in the business.
In a statement, Kepak said, “We have been engaging constructively with potentially affected colleagues at Kepak Cork as part of a consultation in relation to the development.” However, the company confirmed that the development would unfortunately lead to job losses. “We are continuing to openly communicate with those affected and provide them with the support they need,” the Kepak statement said.
In other Kepak news, the business has announced plans to increase the rate of payment to farmers supplying cattle through its Twenty20 Beef Club, which is run in conjunction with dairy processor Tirlán. Some of the key changes announced include an increase in the bonus rate paid on cows, a new bonus for continental-bred cattle and young bulls, an increase in the Hereford breed bonus and overall Twenty20 bonus, as well as a wider scope for carcass weights. The upgraded pricing structures for new and existing members will come into effect immediately. In addition to the enhanced payments, the weight bands for eligible cattle have been widened. The changes aim to offer more farmers the opportunity to take part in the sustainability programme which offers club members access to valuable market outlets for their beef, according to Kepak.
Kepak is a leading meat processor in Ireland, with over 50 years of experience in the industry. The company offers a wide range of products, including beef, lamb, pork, and poultry, to customers in Ireland and around the world. Kepak is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives in place to reduce its environmental impact, including the Twenty20 Beef Club. The company is also focused on innovation and has recently launched a range of plant-based products under the brand name “Incredible by Nature”.
Kepak’s decision to wind down its supply of slow-cooked products to the UK is a blow to the company and the local community. The plant in Watergrasshill has been a major employer in the area for many years, and the job losses will be keenly felt. However, the company’s decision to increase payments to farmers through the Twenty20 Beef Club is a positive development for the Irish farming community, and will help to support sustainable agriculture in the country.
Overall, Kepak is a company that is committed to innovation, sustainability, and supporting the local community. While the job losses at the Watergrasshill plant are regrettable, the company’s focus on sustainability and supporting Irish farmers is to be commended. Kepak is a company that is well-positioned to meet the challenges of the future, and to continue to provide high-quality products to customers around the world.
