Fire-hit plant doubles workforce

The new Dawn Pac factory at Cross Hands Food Park

A west Wales meat packing firm that was hit by a massive fire has doubled its workforce since opening a new plant.

The new £32m Dawn Pac factory at Cross Hands has created 350 jobs in the last six months taking the total to 650.

Officially opened by Economic Development Minister Andrew Davies on Tuesday, it is part of a plan to create a food park to boost local farming.

Dawn Pac looked as if it would be forced to leave the area three years ago following the blaze at its plant.

Manager Mark Allen said: "This is a red letter day which marks a new beginning for Dawn Pac.

The fire severely disrupted Dawn Pac's operation

"We are proud of the way our staff has worked through a difficult period of upheaval and relocation.

"With five acres under cover the new plant is 10 times the size of Dawn Pac's original home.

"It is the group's largest and most sophisticated plant, highly computerised and automated."

The company was supported by the Welsh Development Agency and Carmarthenshire Council.

Council executive board member Clive Scourfield said: "Cross Hands Food Park is a major employment location which is producing real benefits in Carmarthenshire.

"It has already created jobs and is helping to regenerate the area and boost the local economy."