UK Supermarket Chain Morrisons buys FarmCare Carnoustie potato packing plant

Morrisons has acquired a potato packing firm in Angus in a deal which will strengthen the supply of Scottish tubers to the supermarket chain.

Last year in August, Farmcare told workers at its potato packing site in Carnoustie jobs might be cut due to a reduction in trading volume - the end of a significant packing contract.

The Farmcare potato packing business at Carnoustie will be used to store, grade, pack and procure potatoes for Morrisons shoppers.

This latest deal boosts Morrisons total food manufacturing sites across Britain to 17.

TUPE discussions between the two parties are due to start shortly.

Andrew Thornber, managing director of Morrisons Manufacturing:

"Our acquisition of the Carnoustie site, and our relationship with Farmcare, shows Morrisons commitment to working directly with growers in Scotland and offering our customers the very best quality fresh produce.”

Farmcare has 11 production sites across the country and will supply potatoes and a range of other produce to Morrisons.

Richard Quinn,Farmcare CEO:

“The deal with Morrisons is a strong strategic fit. We look forward to an ongoing relationship which allows Farmcare to concentrate on what we do best: growing great crops and working closely with Morrisons as a supplier of choice.”