CRAIGAVON, NORTHERN IRELAND – Poultry processor Moy Park, a Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. subsidiary, recently proposed closing its poultry facility, hatchery and logistics operation in Ashbourne, England.

The company plans to move operations to Ballymena, Northern Ireland, and Anwick, England, when the plant closure is completed.

Moy Park noted in its statement that ongoing investments in facilities led to enhanced efficiencies and allowed the business to move its processing model from four factories to three factories.

“Focusing on operational excellence is all the more important given the challenging headwinds and inflationary environment facing our industry and businesses right across the UK,” Moy Park said. “We are therefore fully committed to continued investment in high standards and manufacturing best-practice in order to fully satisfy market demand and growth, now and into the future.”

Up to 860 workers at the Ashbourne facility could be affected by the plant closing.

“Whilst this is difficult news for all the affected employees, this has no reflection on their dedication or commitment to the business,” Moy Park said in its statement. “We will be working closely to provide support to employees at the site and in our supply chain impacted by this proposed change.”

Even with the closure, Moy Park said it would operate 11 food manufacturing sites across the United Kingdom, France and the Netherlands.