A POPULAR Belfast bakery brand has announced a £850,000 expansion, creating 10 new jobs.
Family-owned French Village Bakery is growing current operations and developing its catering business as it seeks to move into new international markets.
French Village director, Ashley French said the investment, supported by Danske Bank has allowed the company to gain a foothold in the larger catering market.
“We feel there has been a natural progression from when the business supplied sandwiches and catered small events to catering for large corporate events and weddings," Mr French said.
"With the catering division being located at our bakehouse, we can also use the skill set we have in the bakery to assist with products required for catering events, from fresh bread to wedding cakes."
“On top of this, we’ll continue to further develop our product range and expand the wholesale bakery in to new geographical markets," he said.
As part of the major investment the bakery is also set to expand the French Village Academy - an apprentice scheme for chefs, bakers and logistics and warehouse operatives
Ian Beatty, business acquisition manager at Danske Bank added:
“French Village Bakery is one of the most recognisable names in the hospitality sector. This investment marks a key milestone in the company’s history as it diversifies its product offering into larger corporate events. With a strong management team in place, the business is in a robust position for future growth.”
French Village was founded in 1981 with premises on the Stranmillis Road. Originally a producer of artisan breads, cakes and buns the company has since diversified into the catering industry. In 2014 production moved to a purpose built bakehouse on the Montgomery Road.
