Jobs saved as company finds buyer

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/northern_ireland/7831529.stm

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A County Antrim pork processing plant which was in danger of closing has found a buyer.

Stevenson & Co in Cullybackey, which has been in business for more than 150 years, announced proposals to close in October of last year.

Dungannon-based group Dunbia announced on Thursday that it was to acquire the business, saving more than 100 jobs.

The multi-million pound venture will also create up to 70 new jobs and boost existing pork production.

Dunbia Managing Director Jim Dobson said they were delighted to acquire the company.

"We have been looking at the pork sector for some time and acquiring the Stevenson facility with its skilled workforce, loyal farmer supply-chain and industry reputation, gives us a strong trading base," he said.

"This is a double win for Northern Ireland, not only securing the jobs at Stevenson's but providing a secure market for NI pig producers."

Dunbia has also won a contract to supply a full range of fresh pork products to Sainsbury stores throughout Northern Ireland and the UK.

The new contract will be processed from the Stevenson facility in Cullybackey and Dunbia's existing Dungannon facility.