Panelto Foods expands production capacity amid surging demand for “specialty” breads
The new line will focus on producing premium, high-quality breads that reflect the growing consumer appetite for variety, health-conscious options, and elevated in-store bakery experiences.
IRELAND – Panelto Foods, one of Ireland’s leading bake-off bread manufacturers, has announced a €7 million (US$8.2 million) investment to expand its production capacity in response to surging demand for “speciality” breads.
The investment will fund the installation of a new bread production line at the company’s facility in Longford, enabling the production of next-generation artisanal-style loaves tailored to evolving consumer tastes and retail trends.
This latest move brings Panelto’s total investment in facilities and equipment to €40 million since 2018, underscoring its long-term commitment to innovation and growth.
The new line will focus on producing premium, high-quality breads that reflect the growing consumer appetite for variety, health-conscious options, and elevated in-store bakery experiences.
Garry Walsh, CEO of Panelto Foods, highlighted that the company’s growth is driven by innovation supported by a talented workforce that includes people from over 40 different nationalities.
This diverse team brings a wealth of experience and perspectives that contribute to the company’s ability to respond to changing market demands with cutting-edge bakery solutions.
Retailers increasingly view in-store bakery offerings as a key differentiator, driving demand for new product development and enhanced quality.
Since being acquired by the European Bakery Group in 2023, Panelto has doubled its output and positioned itself as a key player in the private-label bakery sector.
The company’s breads are distributed across Ireland and exported to major retailers in the UK and Europe, where demand for artisanal and bake-off products continues to rise.
The announcement was marked by a visit from Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, and Enterprise Ireland CEO Jenny Melia, who praised the company’s role in supporting regional employment and food innovation.
The expansion is expected to create additional jobs and strengthen Longford’s position as a hub for food manufacturing excellence.
Looking ahead, Panelto Foods plans to continue investing in innovation and capacity to support its growth ambitions through 2030.
With this latest expansion, the company is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for specialty breads and maintain its leadership in a competitive and rapidly evolving market.
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