BRITS GO CRACKERS FOR FUDGES’ CHRISTMAS BISCUITS
Dorset-based Fudges bakery is defying the economic downturn and doubling production at its Stalbridge bakery so that it can meet orders that mean the firm is producing nearly two million biscuits a week in the run up to Christmas.
What’s more, the company is taking on 25 new workers and ramping up production of its range of top quality biscuits as festive demand for its bakery range is forecast to reach an all-time high.
The company, which now has a total workforce of 160 full- and part-time workers, is forecast to make as many as 180 million biscuits in 2012 – a 50% increase on previous production levels – as demand for its Fudges branded Dark Chocolate Florentines, Stem Ginger Biscuits, Cheddar Wafers, Cheese Straws and Selection of Biscuits for Cheese continues to rise. Fudges supplies leading supermarkets including Tesco, Waitrose and Booths, as well as leading independent retailers throughout the UK.
The new jobs are all permanent positions to support a year-round extra production shift. The recruitment drive follows the completion of a refurbishment project at the 32,000 sq ft Stalbridge site as family-owned Fudges, which was founded by Percy Fudge in 1926, is heading for a record turnover of £10m in 2011.
Percy’s great, great grandson and current Fudges MD Steve Fudge says: “We are obviously delighted to be performing so well despite the tough economic climate. This success is testimony to the dedication of our workforce and the fact that we continue to produce a range of top quality biscuits that appeal to shoppers looking for affordable luxuries.”
In the run up to Christmas, Fudges’ daily production will include:
- 250,000 Biscuits for Cheese
- 78,000 Cheddar Wafers
- 44,000 Dark Chocolate Florentines
- 44,000 Cheese Straws
- 22,000 Stem Ginger Biscuits
“When it comes to treating ourselves, it is clear Brits only want the best and that’s especially true during the festive season,” adds Steve. “Over the Christmas period we are expecting Brits to munch their way through more than 26 million of our biscuits and we want to make sure that we are making enough so that people can get hold of the biscuits they want.”
Note to editors:
Fudges was founded by Percy Fudge in 1926 and the family has worked hard to preserve his legacy, adapting his award-winning savoury and sweet biscuits, delicious luxury cakes and indulgent treats to suit today’s discerning tastes. Today the company is run by the third generation of Fudges who have increased turnover in the last five years by 250%.
For further information:
Nicole Kennedy/Jenny Choules
Richmond Towers Communications
26 Fitzroy Square
London
W1T 6BT
020 7388 7421
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