The UK’s biggest producer of higher welfare pork is investing £5m to expand its West Norfolk site and make it more eco-friendly.

Pilgrim’s UK, whose factory in Kings Lynn slices and packs cooked pork, is looking to increase the amount of meat it packs by 15pc.

The company said it will do this by bringing in new automated meat-slicing machines, which will speed up packaging lines and reduce waste.

They have not confirmed whether this will affect jobs at the site.

Eastern Daily Press: Pilgrims UK is inversting millions to automate production at Kings Lynn factPilgrims UK is inversting millions to automate production at Kings Lynn fact (Image: Pilgrims UK)

It is also set to spend £600,000 on new electric trucks to replace its current fleet.

Dave Parker, Site Director at Pilgrim’s UK, said: “We have put a tremendous amount of effort and focus into our packaging lines to enhance our sustainability credentials.

“This investment forms the next step in our commitment to the ever-evolving UK market.

“I am really proud that the site is continuing to set high standards in efficiency and increasing its capacity to meet the demand, not just in our business, but across the industry.

“We’ve always got an eye on the future, looking for ways to improve what we do, responsibly and sustainably.”