Speciality Breads announced a GBP 20 million investment in a new, 180,000 sq ft bakery where it plans to relocate. The new facility, which should become operational by the end of the year, has an ambitious goal of becoming “the most sustainable bakery in the UK”, the company anticipates: “The bakery will be capable of generating its own solar electricity and will feature a first-of-its-kind in the UK, electric/gas hybrid oven and state-of-the-art production line, both supplied by Royal Kaak,” Specialty Breads detailed in an announcement.

The company partnered with Wildfarmed last year, and now uses their regenerative flour across its entire product range. They also switched the ingredients used to plant-based alternatives.

The move will support the company’s plan to add retail as a segment of its portfolio, as well as improve the quality and range of its foodservice products.

Managing Director Simon Cannell comments: “This new facility is the ‘Bakery of the Future’. The bespoke-built Royal Kaak production line enables us to retain our incredible flexibility and breadth of range whilst also providing a huge step change in both quality and efficiency. By making the move to this site we are future-proofing the business for the next 20 years so that we can develop partnerships with key customers for the long term.

The hybrid stone bake oven is a game-changer in the industry, allowing us to move quickly towards net zero as the energy market allows. Customers with volume will be able to choose what percentage of gas or electric energy they want to use, as well as specify their own percentage blend of Wildfarmed flour. This is unique in the market and a hugely exciting innovation in the world of bakery.”

Photos: Speciality Breads social media