RDP project database
Increased Capacity and Efficiency of a Potato Production Plant
Summary
The project deals with restructuring the production facilities to improve accessibility, energy, water treatment, health & safety that will lead to enhance the efficiency and capacity of the company with an environmental conscience.
Background
The project is part of the Processing and Marketing Grant (PMG) scheme of the Welsh RDP which provides financial assistance for capital investments that add value to agricultural and forestry products. These investments enable primary producers in Wales to add value to their outputs.
Objective
The key objectives of this investment include the enhancement of the production factors resulting in improved performance and competitiveness of the business. Any investment is undertaken in respect of the environment. This type of support allows for a better targeted production in line with consumer demand as well as facilitates the possibility of exploiting other niche markets.
Main activities
The main project activities included: (a) a new road improving vehicle access to the loading bays and allowing for a better road management system to operate around the site (b) an upgraded power supply to the existing potato packing line (c) the construction of a new water treatment facility (d) the relocation of a weighbridge to improve access and health & safety standards, and (e) the refurbishment of the packaging shed.
Results & Benefits
The award winning potato firm Puffin Produce is able to implement a number of key measures at its Haverfordwest base which will increase the firm’s capacity and efficiency thus sustaining the on-farm employment. There will also be environmental benefits through the water treatment plant as well as health & safety improvements from the investments implemented.
Lessons learnt
A combination of efficiency and capacity improvement investments with environmental and health & safety measures help address multiple issues and enable a competetive operation to remain at the forefront of the market.
Project location and other information
Pembrokeshire
Region
Wales
RDP Territory
Wales
Total project cost (€)
9 609 245
EAFRD contribution (€)
4 708 530
Private contribution (€)
4 900 715
Project website
Contact name
Charlotte Cosserat
Telephone
+44 300 062 2222 / +44 300 062 2218
Languages for contact
English
At a glance
Country
United Kingdom
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers
Budget range
> €500 000
Start date:
13/04/2011
End Date:
30/12/2013
Theme / Measure:
Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
123. Adding value to agricultural and forestry products
Keywords:
Agri-food industry, Vegetable, Modernisation, Waste water, Farm buildings
Last update
17/05/2012