AKP digs new potato facilities

State-of-the-art storage and grading facilities have been opened at UK potato processor AKP.

The new facilities will, says the firm, enable it to meet increased demand for quality potatoes from customers including Morrisons, McCain and Linroyale.

“We initially won funding towards the £2 million (€2.5m) storage facility from the Rural Development Programme for England back in 2009,” says managing director Richard Arundel (pictured). “The cold store, which now sits on the former KP potato storage facility we acquired in 2007, is suitable for long-term storage.

“This will enable our growers to maximise the output from their land through the late season marketing of potatoes. With increased insulation to reduce refrigeration and ethylene sprout-suppressant systems, the store boasts the latest in environment-friendly technology.”

The facility also includes a 4,000 sq ft two-storey office development, comprising a boardroom, fully furnished kitchen, large open plan office and a number of individual offices.