Bernard Matthews has reversed its decision to close its turkey processing plant in Derby, saving around 400 jobs that were previously at risk. The Shaftesbury Street site will now remain open after the business secured a new anchor customer, whose additional volume gives the factory the demand it needs to keep operating.

The company announced in August that the site would close by the end of the year, blaming continued significant losses and wider economic pressures. Around 600 workers were affected by that original decision, and a 45-day collective consultation with employees and union representatives had already concluded.

400 jobs saved — but not all of them

The reversal does not end the uncertainty for everyone at the plant. Under a revised operating model, the business will re-enter consultation, with between 100 and 150 roles remaining at risk of redundancy. It said it would do all it can to support those affected, working with local agencies, Derby South MP Baggy Shanker and USDAW, the union representing factory staff.

What the company and the MP said

"We are pleased to confirm that the Derby site will remain operational, and securing this new customer provides a stronger foundation from which to build a sustainable future," a Bernard Matthews spokesperson said. Mr Shanker called it "a huge relief for hundreds of workers and their families", adding that keeping around 400 people in work was an important outcome. He said he was working with the Department for Work and Pensions to identify employment and training opportunities for anyone moving into other roles.

The site's focus is now on stabilising the Derby team and embedding the new customer under 2 Sisters Food Group, which owns the business.

Sources: Food Manufacture, Bernard Matthews Derby site closure reversed but hundreds still at risk of redundancy, 5 November 2026; The Grocer, Bernard Matthews reverses closure of Derby processing plant, 5 November 2026.