The investment at Moy Park’s Ashbourne processing facility will enable the company to increase processing capacity to over 1 million birds per week with the installation of a new cutting line, processing equipment and refrigeration chilling technology.

Meanwhile, the investment will increase the hatchery’s capacity to 1.2 million chicks per week, enabling Moy Park to meet growing demand from its customers for locally sourced poultry products.

The investment will also create 100 new jobs.

Alan Gibson, Moy Park UK & Ireland Director said: “This is a really exciting development for Ashbourne which will see the hatchery and the factory transformed into state-of-the art facilities employing the most technologically advanced equipment.

“This multimillion pound investment will meet the highest standards of animal welfare, hygiene and biosecurity. It will also ensure that we are well placed to meet increasing consumer demand for locally sourced, high quality poultry products.

"We are committed to providing a best-in-class service for our customers and leading the way in terms of product quality and innovation.

"These investments are a very positive development for Ashbourne and there is a great feeling of optimism amongst the team as we position the business for continued growth,” Mr Gibson concluded.