The move follows Tayto’s three acquisitions earlier this year, including London-based chip maker Tavern Snacks, Devon-based popcorn supplier Portlebay Popcorn and Maghera-based (Northern Ireland) popcorn firm Pop Notch.
The latest deal includes The Real Pork Crackling’s production facility in Tamworth, Staffordshire.
According to Paul Allen, Tayto’s CEO, organic growth and planned acquisition have always been key to Tayto’s development strategy.
“This is another phase of that plan,” he said.
He added The Real Pork Crackling Company acquisition is an “excellent fit” for the group.
“We are both family-owned businesses and share a lot of the same values and ethos. It gives us a great brand to add to our portfolio in a market segment that continues to grow especially with those seeking a high-in-protein snack,” said Allen.
The English brand will join Tayto Group’s other pork scratching label, Mr Porky, along with household brands such as Golden Wonder and Real Crisps.
Pork scratchings
The Real Pork Crackling Company was founded in 1992 by owner Chris Cunliffe and produces pork scratchings, and owns the Golden Pork Crunch pork crackling brand. The firm is listed in independents and multiples across the UK and Ireland, including Sainsbury’s, Co-Op, Morrisons and Asda.
Tayto said the company’s annual turnover is around £6m ($8m).
Cunliffe will continue to lead the business as well as taking on a wider role as chief operating officer for pork products within the Tayto Group.
Tayto Group is the third largest snack manufacturer in the UK, producing six million bags a day across its six sites (five in the UK and one in Ireland).