A BRADFORD pie manufacturer has closed its doors after more than 150 years in business.

Family-owned Stobarts (Bradford) Ltd, based on Carr Lane in Low Moor, was one of the UK’s largest independent producers of pies and meat products.

The firm was founded in 1867 in a terraced house beside the Liberal Club in Towngate, Wyke.

 

 

The announcement of its closure followed a strategic review of the business.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The firm's base in Low Moor The firm's base in Low Moor

Director Philip Stobart said: “A range of business and personal factors led us to undertake the review. Neil and I have led the company for over 40 years, building on the foundations of our forebears.

“Covid expedited our planning and with no family succession or business buyer the structured wind down and realisation of the business assets was the natural conclusion.

“Our loyal customers, staff and suppliers have remained at the forefront of our thinking, and they have been updated as the process advanced.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Neil Stobart pictured in 2015 Neil Stobart pictured in 2015

Chartered Surveyors Walker Singleton has been appointed to market and sell the property, plus assets of the business.

Howard Eastwood, Director in the Machinery & Business Assets Department, said: “The production assets of the business are extensive encompassing meat processing and bakery related equipment geared to a volume output; the three main lines for pie and sausage roll production can run a combined output of up to 35,000 units per hour.

“Typical to family run businesses, high regard has been placed on maintenance and upkeep of all equipment.

“An online auction will take place in June 2022 and will be a full site dispersal that will encompass all production equipment and support assets such as transportation, handling, packaging etc.”

Paul Diakiw, Commercial Property Director at Walker Singleton, who is handling the sale of the freehold properties, added: “The company has occupied the main production site for over 50 years.

“Its food production and storage capability, which retains Grade A+ BRC Accreditation, provides rare industry sector opportunity and the site is likely to have wider appeal to commercial and possibly residential developers in a market where prospects are restricted at this time.

“The 400-pallet fully racked cold store has niche appeal but is well sited in the city, offering businesses who perhaps currently pay a premium to rent cold store pallet space to own their own facility. I feel both properties will attract interest once marketing starts.”

Further information on the online auction is available at www.walkersingleton.co.uk