Promise of 100 jobs to come as Japanese snacks firm opens its new Deeside factory today

The hoisting of three flags marked the official opening of Calbee UK’s brand new £6.5m innovation and manufacturing facility in Deeside today.

Managing Director of Calbee UK, Richard Robinson along with special guest Chief Executive Officer of Calbee Inc, Akira Matsumoto came together to each hoist a flag into position to mark the opening of the facility, which plans to employ up to 100 people in the next five years.

More than 50 guests helped to celebrate the official opening of the manufacturing facility with samples of the new product handed out for people to share and enjoy.

The factory, which has been equipped with the latest manufacturing technology available from USA, Japan and Europe, is a world class facility with the latest quality, food safety, health and safety and traceability testing in place.

The Welsh government has supported Calbee with a significant seven-figure investment.

Yushoi, the first brand to launch under the Calbee UK umbrella, is made predominantly from green peas, baked, less than 99 calories per pack and is suitable for vegetarians, vegans as well as dairy and nut free. It is the first product of its kind to be manufactured in the UK and is real category innovation for the snacking market, meeting with consumer demand for healthier alternatives to fried potato crisps. 

More than 50 guests helped to celebrate the official opening of the manufacturing facility with samples of the new product handed out for people to share and enjoy.

Production has already started with the possibility for further machinery to be added to the current process allowing for increased capacity as the business evolves.

Richard Robinson said:

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank our colleagues for their hard work and dedication over recent months. Launching a factory is no mean feat and creating something that is industry leading adds further pressure.

“We love the final results and look forward to sharing our journey as we bring something completely new to the UK snacking category. We are not a typical snack company and have set out from day one to be different.

“We know that in creating snacks that are better for you we can meet with the consumer demand for taste and further choice in relation to healthier options. Add to that our values and you have the formula for a really interesting and exciting business with big ambition.”