Albert Bartlett receives £4m Scottish Government grant

UK-based potato producer Albert Bartlett has received a £4 million grant from the Scottish Government, which the brand will use to expand its product range and manufacturing capacity.

Albert Bartlett has stated that the grant will contribute towards a £17 million investment scheme, which will see the brand install new production equipment at the Firm’s Airdrie plant, facilitating the production of new product lines for the convenience and chilled potato markets.

The £4 million Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation grant is the largest award issued since the scheme was introduced by the Scottish Government in 2015.

Mark Murray, managing director of Albert Bartlett’s added value business said: “We are grateful for this grant from the Scottish Government, which is essential in allowing the company to diversify into the growing convenience and chilled potato market.

“Our development into this exciting new area will create 35 new jobs and safeguard 50 more here in Airdrie, in addition to providing security for our partners working in the entire supply chain, not least our dedicated group of potato growers.

“When the plant is operational, it will process 50,000 tonnes of potatoes per year, around 90% of which will be grown in Scotland.”

Rural economy secretary Fergus Ewing announced the grant, and he added: “This award will help Albert Bartlett diversify their products, move into new markets, create new jobs and safeguard existing posts.

Today’s £4 million announcement demonstrates our continued commitment to help food and drink companies, large and small, take their businesses to the next level while building on our reputation as a land of food and drink.”