Meat giant Cranswick has revealed that an independent review into its animal welfare policies is "well advanced" following shocking abuse claims at one of its pig farms earlier this year. The East Yorkshire-based company suspended operations at the facility after disturbing footage emerged of workers mistreating animals.
The company's chief executive Adam Couch said Cranswick has strengthened its animal welfare practices and checks in recent months as a direct result of the scandal. The independent expert veterinarian-led review is examining the firm's policies and livestock operations across its business.
Farm suspended after abuse footage
Cranswick suspended using Northmoor Farm in Lincolnshire in May after covert footage appeared to show workers abusing piglets at the site. The disturbing video showed workers holding piglets by their hind legs and slamming them to the ground, using a banned killing method known as "piglet thumping".
Major supermarkets including Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury's and Tesco immediately suspended Northmoor Farm as a supplier following the revelations. Cranswick launched the independent review shortly afterwards to examine its animal welfare policies and procedures.
Company strengthens welfare checks
Couch said the company had fulfilled commitments made on 20 May to strengthen its animal welfare compliance practices and checks. "The independent expert veterinarian led review of these policies and procedures is well advanced, and we look forward to receiving its recommendations," he added.
The chief executive promised to provide a further update on the review in due course. The announcement came as Cranswick also revealed strong financial performance for the 13 weeks to 28 June.
Revenue growth across business
Revenues grew by 9.7 per cent over the quarter, boosted by the acquisition of sausage maker Blakemans and export growth. Like-for-like revenues increased by 7.9 per cent, supported by new business wins and strong performance from premium added-value ranges.
Export revenues performed strongly due to higher volumes and pricing after China reinstated the export licence for Cranswick's Norfolk fresh pork site late last year. Poultry revenues also grew strongly, while pet products revenues increased after rolling out more products for Pets at Home.
Cranswick said it remains on track to meet financial expectations for the current financial year. Couch added: "We have made a strong start to the year, delivering volume-led revenue growth across all product categories."
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
