Two Welsh Government ministers have visited the Peter’s Foods factory in Bedwas to pledge support for Wales’ food industry.
Economy Secretary Ken Skates and Rural Affairs Secretary Lesley Griffiths visited the factory on Wednesday (December 12).
The company is best-known for it’s iconic pies, pasties and sausage rolls and currently employs more than 700 people.
The visit marks one year since the Welsh Government launched it’s Economic Action Plan, which identifies the food sector as one of Wales’ key industries.
Tourism, retail and care are the other industries identified by the plan.
In August, Peter’s sold their factory in Bedwas for £5million.
The company now leases the factory and has invested the money from the sale into a revival plan.
As part of the plan, they have developed a new range of low-fat products under a new brand.
The new Nurish hot-filled bake products contain less than 400 calories and are being aimed at health-conscious millennials.
Speaking at the visit, Mr Skates said: “I have been really encouraged by the positive response the Economic Action Plan has received from the business community and as a result of the Action Plan we now have over 100 Economic Contracts in place with companies across Wales who are seeking our support.
“The Plan also identifies four foundation sectors – food, tourism, retail and care – that really are the backbone of our local economies.
“These are sectors that provide vital jobs and essential goods and services to people right in the heart of our communities. Food and drink manufacturing alone contributes turnover of £4.8bn to our economy and employs 23,000 people across Wales.”
He added: “Today I want to reiterate my commitment to supporting our regional economies and working with the food sector and with companies just like Peter’s, so we can help them to seize opportunities to innovate, evolve, increase their productivity and grow.
“We are also working closely with the sector to promote working in the food sector as an attractive career option that can offer long term prospects and a clear progression route.”