Tyrrells Vegetable Crisps Discontinued Amid Factory Closure in Staffordshire
In a significant move for the British snack industry, KP Snacks has revealed plans to shut down the Tyrrells factory located in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire. This decision will result in the discontinuation of the entire vegetable crisps range produced at the site, marking the end of an era for this popular product line.
Declining Demand and Export Losses Drive Decision
The closure follows what the company describes as a "sustained" decline in demand for Tyrrells vegetable crisps, coupled with the loss of crucial export volumes. KP Snacks cited these factors as primary reasons for the move, highlighting the challenges faced in maintaining profitability for this specific range amidst shifting consumer preferences and market conditions.
While the exact number of employees affected by the factory closure has not been disclosed, KP Snacks has assured that it will endeavour to minimise redundancies during the transition process. The company is reportedly exploring options to support staff through this period, though specific details on redeployment or severance packages remain unclear at this stage.
Other Tyrrells Ranges Remain Unaffected
Importantly, KP Snacks confirmed that this decision does not impact other Tyrrells potato crisp ranges, which continue to perform strongly in the market. The company emphasised that only the vegetable crisps line is being axed, allowing the brand to focus resources on its more successful products.
Tyrrells was originally founded in 2002 by potato farmer William Chase and gained a reputation for its premium, hand-cooked crisps. The brand was acquired by Intersnack, the parent company of KP Snacks, in 2018, integrating it into a larger portfolio of snack offerings.
This closure reflects broader trends in the food industry, where companies are increasingly streamlining operations to adapt to economic pressures and changing consumer habits. The loss of the vegetable crisps range may disappoint loyal customers, but KP Snacks aims to maintain its market position through its other thriving product lines.
