WIREDGOV

Economy Secretary, Ken Skates and Rural Affairs Secretary, Lesley Griffiths have pledged ongoing support for Wales’ food sector following a visit to one of its most iconic and well-loved brands.

The visit to Peter’s Foods in Bedwas comes exactly one year on from the launch of the Economic Action Plan which focuses on growing Wales’ regional economies and spreading wealth and well being across Wales and identifies food as one of four foundation sectors where the Welsh Government wants to work proactively with businesses to improve sustainability, quality and long term prospects.

The other three Foundation Sectors identified in the Economic Action Plan are Tourism, Retail and Care.

Peter’s Foods began as a family owned business in the mid 1970s selling pastry products. While its management has changed over the years, its reputation for producing  award winning savoury pastries and sausages remains firmly intact. It currently employs 700 people.

Speaking at the visit to Peter’s Foods Economy Secretary, Ken Skates yesterday said:

“One year ago I was proud to launch our new Economic Action Plan which sets out a clear vision for building stronger foundations for growth, supercharging the industries of the future, and empowering Wales’ regions.

I have been really encouraged by the positive response it has received from the business community and as a result of the Action Plan we now have over 100 Economic Contracts in place with companies across Wales who are seeking our support.

The Plan also identifies four foundation sectors  - food, tourism, retail and care  -  that really are the backbone of our local economies.

These are sectors that provide vital jobs and essential goods and services to people right in the heart of our communities. Indeed food and drink manufacturing alone contributes turnover of £4.8bn to our economy and employs 23,000 people across Wales.

Today I want to reiterate my commitment to supporting our regional economies and working the food sector and with companies just like Peter’s, so we can help them to seize opportunities to innovate, evolve, increase their  productivity and grow. We are also working closely with the sector to promote working in the food sector as an attractive career option that can offer long term prospects and a clear progression route.”

Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Planning and Rural Affairs yesterday said:

“I am impressed by the range of award winning savoury pastries produced by Peter’s Foods over many years here in Bedwas where the company is a major employer and I welcome the appointment of David Lloyd from Food Innovation Wales as the new Non Executive Director.”

Mike Grimwood, managing director, Peter’s Food Service, yesterday said:

“We welcome the visit by both the Cabinet Secretaries to Peter’s today.

Welsh Government has been extremely supportive of this iconic Welsh company over many years, recognising the important role the company plays in both the sector, and the local community – we are a major employer, employing almost 700 local people.”