Kilkeel Seafoods has opened a new state-of-the-art scampi processing site in Kilkeel this week. Following a £1.3million investment, the new addition to the harbour based seafood business opened on Thursday 12 November.
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Daniel Whittle, managing director of Kilkeel Seafoods, centre, with Laura Whittle, Sales Director, and Edward Whittle, Operations Director.[/caption]
The new refurbished site consolidates the two previous sites at Kilkeel South and Kilkeel North. The new site will be dedicated to the shelling and processing of langoustine (prawns) caught in the Irish Sea which will be sold across the UK and Ireland as breaded scampi.
This investment forms the core part of parent company Whitby Seafoods’ plan to drive quality and efficiency across their business. The investment shows the long-term value and commitment Whitby Seafoods have for Kilkeel.
In excess of 20 new permanent jobs have so far been created in Kilkeel with more to come as the new facility becomes fully operational.
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Scampi processing at Kilkeel Seafoods.[/caption]
Daniel Whittle, Managing Director of parent company Whitby Seafoods said: “We are very excited about our new factory, which we believe to be world leading in quality scampi processing. We are delighted to continue to invest in Kilkeel as we recognise the value of the dedicated Northern Irish prawn fishermen working in this area and the benefit our experienced and skilled staff bring to our business.”
The opening was attended by Daniel Whittle, employees, and representatives from DARD (Department of Argiculture and Rural Development), Down District Council, Sea Fish NI, SEA EFF (South East Area European Fisheries Fund), and MP Margaret Richie amongst others.
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