€7 Million Investment Fuels Panelto Foods’ Growth in Longford

UPDATE: Panelto Foods has just announced a transformative €7 million investment in a new bread line at its Longford facility, marking a pivotal moment for the company. This investment elevates the company’s total capital injections to an impressive €40 million since 2018, a testament to its relentless pursuit of innovation and growth.

This latest development is significant as it comes at a time when consumer preferences are rapidly evolving. The new bread line will produce next-generation specialty breads, perfectly aligning with current retail trends that favor high-quality, artisanal products. Panelto’s commitment to innovation is set to bolster its production capabilities and respond to the increasing demand for premium baked goods.

Longford, where Panelto currently employs 370 people, stands to benefit greatly from this investment. The facility includes a state-of-the-art bakery, an R&D Innovation Centre, and a dedicated training hub. The company has doubled its output since 2018, showcasing its rapid growth trajectory.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, highlighted the importance of this investment during his visit, stating,

“Panelto Foods is a fantastic example of how sustained investment in innovation and infrastructure can drive growth and competitiveness.”

He emphasized the government’s support through Enterprise Ireland and acknowledged the company’s role as a crucial employer in the local economy of Longford.

CEO of Panelto Foods, Garry Walsh, expressed his pride in the company’s achievements, stating that their growth is rooted in a culture of innovation. “Our insights and R&D team never stand still, and we have invested heavily in understanding consumer and retail trends,” Walsh noted. He added that the workforce in Longford, comprising individuals from over forty different nationalities, contributes a wealth of experience and perspectives that fuel the company’s innovative spirit.

With the retail landscape shifting, the demand for in-store bakery products is soaring. Panelto Foods is poised to capitalize on this trend, producing artisanal-style breads that meet consumer desires for cleaner labels and health benefits. As many retailers reduce traditional scratch bakeries, the need for high-quality in-store bread solutions has never been more urgent.

Enterprise Ireland CEO, Jenny Melia, reaffirmed the significance of this investment, stating,

“This new €7 million capital investment further strengthens Panelto’s position as a leader in the sector.”

Melia emphasized the company’s commitment to Longford as a hub for innovation and its ongoing partnership with Enterprise Ireland.

The announcement of the new bread line is not just a corporate milestone; it represents a beacon of hope for the local economy and the bakery sector at large. As Panelto Foods continues to innovate and adapt to consumer demands, the impact of this investment will resonate well beyond its Longford base.

NEXT STEPS: As the company rolls out the new bread line, all eyes will be on its performance in the coming months, particularly in response to the recent launch of its Italian Style Focaccia Sandwich Breads, which have already exceeded expectations in both the UK and Irish markets. The industry will be watching closely to see how Panelto Foods leverages this investment to further its growth ambitions up to 2030 and beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Panelto Foods continues to shape the future of bakery innovation in Ireland.