Bernard Matthews to close Derby processing facility by end of 2026

Bernard Matthews has announced the closure of its turkey processing facility in Derby, UK, scheduled for completion by December 20, 2026. The decision is expected to affect approximately 600 employees.

The company cited “continued significant financial losses” and various geopolitical and economic pressures as the primary drivers for the closure. Specific factors mentioned include Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic, and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, all of which have impacted the site and its supply chain.

The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (Usdaw) described the closure as a “devastating blow” for the staff and the local community. While the company stated it would seek to support workers through potential redeployment or by working with local organizations to find alternative employment, union representatives expressed disappointment that attempts to save the site during consultation were unsuccessful.

In light of the closure, Bernard Matthews has called for increased government support for the UK food supply chain, noting that rising costs and complexity are undermining food security and driving inflation.