A BRADFORD bakery has opened a new multi-million pound extension that will bring a jobs boost to the city's economy.

The investment at CSM Bakery Solutions, based in Cutler Heights Lane, Dudley Hill, has seen the factory extended, and will lead to 100 jobs being created at the factory over the next three months.

The multinational company, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, has invested more than £9 million in the Bradford site, which produces a variety of baked goods including chocolate brownies, cookies, shortbread and macaroons.

Products made at the factory are sold at all supermarket chains in the UK.

Kevin Barnes, site manager at the factory, said as well as helping to extend the factory, the investment has also allowed the factory to buy new equipment.

He said: “We work in the ‘mini-bite’ industry, which has really taken off recently.

“They are seen as a luxury item, and are really popular as it allows people to share the treats with each other.

“We are currently producing around 13,000 tonnes of cookies, flapjacks and more each year.

“We operate a very modern bakery which a lot of customers like, and strive to be best in class on hygiene.

“We have opportunities for people to join us in all areas of the business, from the shop floor to research and development, food science and technology, and pathways to become supervisors or managers.”

Officially opening the new extension on Monday were the leader of Bradford Council, Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, and local Councillor Alan Wainwright.

Cllr Hinchcliffe said it was encouraging to see a multinational company make a significant investment in Bradford.

She said: “It shows they have great confidence in the Bradford economy and want to recruit new people.

“They are working with the Council to make sure people have the opportunity to work here and there is clear career progression.

“A lot of people will not realise what they buy from national brands is made right here in Bradford.”

A number of other food factories are based near CDM, and Cllr Hinchcliffe added that Bradford is becoming a hub for food production.

“There is a lot of opportunity for jobs in food manufacturing, and by working together, companies can create something quite special here,” she added.

The CSM factory is one of six around the UK, with a further 19 across Europe.