Family-run crisp producer Fairfields Farm, based in Wormingford, Essex, is continuing its ambitious expansion plans with a major factory investment set to complete this May. The multi-million-pound upgrade includes the installation of a second industrial fryer, boosting weekly crisp output by 40 per cent, alongside a new automated weighing and bagging system to support the increased production volume.
The latest investment follows the successful installation of a similar fryer in 2024, which delivered a 90 per cent uplift in capacity. Together, the upgrades significantly increase Fairfields Farm’s ability to meet rising demand across retail, hospitality and foodservice channels.
This expansion caps off a strong year for the business, which reported +38 per cent year-on-year sales for their financial year to July 2024 and is on track to deliver a further 25 per cent year-on-year growth from July 2024 to July 2025. Key milestones included a record harvest, a series of production enhancements, and the launch of new products and packaging.
Among 2024’s highlights was the introduction of the Prawn Cocktail flavour – one of the brand’s most anticipated new variants – alongside a bold new packaging refresh across its full range. The redesigned packs, produced by a carbon-neutral supplier, use 30 per cent less material and are designed to reflect the brand’s rural heritage while making nutritional information clearer and more prominent.
“This upgrade is about unlocking the next phase of our growth," said Fairfields Farm’s Co-Founder Robert Strathern. "As we scale, we’re investing in the systems and infrastructure that will allow us to stay agile and deliver more of what our customers want, without compromising on the values that set us apart.”
Commercial Director Tash Jones added: “We’ve built strong momentum over the past 12 months – driven by product innovation, sustainable practices, and a brilliant team. With increased capacity and a pipeline of new products and contract wins, we’re now in an excellent position to drive further growth across both existing and new markets.”
Fairfields Farm has already kicked off 2025 with several major developments. Two new recent senior appointments have strengthened the leadership team, while a range of new products and retail partnerships are set to roll out in the coming months. This includes the launch of a Chorizo & Red Wine crisp in May, followed by a festive Honey Roasted Chestnut & Sage variant in October.
