UK vegan food manufacturer VBites has bought a third factory in the north east of England.

It has acquired the 385,000 sq ft former Procter & Gamble factory in Newcastle, for an undisclosed sum.

The business, owned by campaigner and food writer Heather Mills, announced in November that it was planning to expand further after receiving a “seven-figure” funding package from bank HSBC UK.

The Brighton-based company said then it would site its third factory in Newcastle, from where Mills originates.

After the new purchase was announced, Mills said: “This is now my third factory purchase in the north east to help bring more employment and expand the plant-based meat-, fish- and allergen-free dairy alternative industry, as well as micro algae and vegan make-up. 

“This recent purchase of a factory that has been sitting empty for nearly two years will mean it will bring more jobs to the region and we can incubate all of our VBitesVentures investments to help them scale-up, manufacture, distribute and sell in 24 countries around the world. 

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“I am hoping that the supermarkets and food service industry will support British manufacturing in these difficult times and Britain can unite to become a booming country in the food and beverage sector.”

Media reports suggest the new factory could employ up to 600 people. Its acquisition follows that of a former Walkers Crisps factory at nearby Peterlee which is due to open soon, and which, it is anticipated, could employ 300 people.