New Vegan Factory In Downpatrick Creates 90 Jobs

A Northern Ireland meat company is opening a new vegan factory in County Down in a £3 million investment set to create up to 90 jobs.

Finnebrogue Artisan, which was first known for its venison products, has been producing vegetarian and vegan alternatives for three years but is up-scaling its meat-free production with the new Downpatrick factory.

The facility is expected to have an annual turnover of £30m a year when operating at full capacity.

Managing director Brian McMonagle said: "Finnebrogue has always prided itself on providing consumers delicious, innovative products, and given the increasing demand for vegan and vegetarian alternatives, this new factory was the obvious next step in our extraordinary growth.

"We are determined not to stand still and are always looking to make food the best it can possibly be, without being bound by the way it's always been done. More and more people are switching to a vegan or vegetarian diet, and even meat eaters are increasingly seeking a day or two off a week."

Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard welcomed both the expansion and employment growth for the area.

"This significant investment and jobs boost at Finnebrougue Artisan in Downpatrick is welcome news for the local area and will provide a boost to the local economy," the south Down MP said.

"This investment will see a new facility making vegan and vegetarian meat products at its existing factory near Downpatrick and will create 90 jobs. 

"It is heartening to see an emerging international foods company showing loyalty to the area with this investment. 

"This will add to the vibrant and growing local food and produce offering in South Down. 

"I wish the company well with this investment and look forward to further growth in the future." 



(JG/CM)