Sun Valley acquires Gloucestershire-based poultry processor

Cargill has expanded its UK poultry operations by acquiring Freeman’s of Newent, a primary chicken processing business in Gloucestershire.

Freeman’s is a family owned business employing 120 people which supplies fresh chicken to UK food service, retail and manufacturing customers.

Richard Maxfield, managing director of Sun Valley Europe explained: “Freeman’s will strengthen our fresh chicken business, complement our existing operations in Hereford and reinforce our commitment to UK agriculture and our UK customers.”

The Freeman’s management team – which was headed up by Clifford and Nigel Freeman – will remain in place during the integration process and is working closely with Cargill to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

“We have built a strong and effective business over the years”, says Clifford. “Selling the business to Cargill as a going concern will position it well for future success and enable it to reach its full potential.”

Cargill’s global poultry business has grown over recent years with the acquisition of Seara’s poultry and pork business in Brazil. The company now has poultry facilities in the UK, France, Ireland, Netherlands, Canada, Brazil, Honduras, Nicaragua and Thailand.