Heler Foods Packing, part of the Joseph Heler group, is celebrating the continued success of its Porthmadog facility following a £6 million investment. This expansion has significantly boosted production capabilities while delivering major economic benefits to the local community, including the creation of over 200 new jobs.
The facility, rebranded as Heler Foods Packing after its acquisition in August 2022, specialises in cutting, blending, and packing multiple cheese formats. While the site has faced challenges under previous regimes, the transformation under Heler Foods Packing has established solid foundations and a clear path to sustainable growth, with turnover now in excess of £80m. Its state-of-the-art operations have already earned prestigious accreditations, including BRC Grade A and Red Tractor certification.
The Joseph Heler group was founded in 1957 near Nantwich, Cheshire, and is now led by George Heler, the third generation of the family. The group supplies the UK’s major supermarkets, food manufacturers and also exports to over 40 markets internationally, showcasing its commitment to delivering quality cheese products on a global scale. Brands include the Joseph Heler brand, its pioneering Eatlean range of high-protein, low-calorie cheese, and The Tex Mex Cheese Co. which includes bold, spicy cheese products designed for adventurous tastes.
The Porthmadog site has become a significant addition to the group, providing increased capacity and capabilities while playing a key role in the local economy. Over 200 new roles have been created across operations, technical teams, and support functions. As part of its commitment to the region, Heler Foods Packing is passionate about investing in and promoting Welsh talent, ensuring local employees have access to professional growth opportunities and a long-term future with the company.
Managing Director George Heler shared his thoughts on the success of Heler Foods Packing:
“When we embarked on our journey at Minffordd, we knew it was a fantastic site with huge potential. It has provided our customers with increased capability and capacity across all cheese formats. But most importantly, it has enabled us to create sustainable employment in the local area while planning for a greener, more sustainable future. We’re incredibly proud of our investment here and our growing role in Porthmadog.”
Looking ahead, Heler Foods Packing has pledged further investment in the Porthmadog site, including plans to install solar panels that are expected to save 112 tonnes of CO2 annually as part of its commitment to sustainability. These efforts aim to reduce the facility’s carbon footprint and support renewable energy initiatives.
This milestone marks another chapter in Heler Foods Packing’s growth story, combining innovation, regional development, and environmental responsibility with a dedication to the local community and a strong focus on nurturing Welsh talent.
