Supermarket supplier Cranswick has announced it is ramping up its investment programme on the back of a strong start to its financial year.
The Hull farm-to-fork business supplies everything from fresh pork and gourmet sausages to chicken, charcuterie, olives and pet food, and it has now published first quarter trading figures, covering the 13 weeks to June 28. It said revenue is ahead across all product categories year-on-year, up 9.7% compared to the same period last year, with Blakemans, which was acquired on in May, making a positive contribution in line with expectations.
Like-for-like revenue was up 7.9%, driven by a boost in growth from new business wins, closer alignment with key strategic retail partners and continued outperformance of its premium ranges. It said it has seen growth on the back of the consumer’s increasing appetite for natural protein.
Export revenue was also strong, reflecting both volume growth and higher pricing following the reinstatement of the Norfolk fresh pork site’s China export license in December 2024. Meanwhile, poultry revenue grew strongly and its pet products revenue was also well ahead, reflecting the successful ongoing roll out of the Pets at Home business. It said it has further strengthened the relationship with Pets at Home with its new premium own-label business, and supply is due to begin later in the year.
On investments, it told shareholders: “We are accelerating the pace of capital expenditure to add capacity, expand capability, and drive operating efficiencies across our 23 production facilities and extensive pig and poultry farming operations. During the period we made good progress on each of our major earnings enhancing capital projects. With new business secured, we have committed a further £14m of investment at the Lincoln Pet Products site, to increase capacity and broaden the product range.”
Looking ahead, Cranswick bosses said the outlook for the current financial year remains in line with current market expectations.
Adam Couch, CEO of Cranswick, said: “We have made a strong start to the year, delivering volume-led revenue growth across all product categories. We continue to invest at pace across our asset base to drive strong returns.
“In line with the commitments we made on 20 May 2025, we have further strengthened our animal welfare compliance practices and checks. The independent expert veterinarian led review of these policies and procedures is well advanced, and we look forward to receiving its recommendations. We will provide a further update on this review in due course.
“Integration of the Blakemans business is progressing well and we have committed to further substantial investment in the Lincoln Pet Products site.
“Our continued positive progress reflects the substantial ongoing investment in our asset base and the quality and capability of our colleagues across the business.”
