Kepak, the Co Meath-based beef processing company, is to exchange its Preston, UK, abattoir and retail packing plant for a processing plant in Kilbeggan, Co Westmeath, which is currently operated by the Dungannon-based Dunbia group.
A joint statement issued by the companies did not disclose the relative values of the premises to be exchanged but said both factories would continue to operate as going concerns managed by the new owners.
The exchange, described as a "win-win" move for both companies, will see Kepak strengthen its processing base in Ireland, adding the Kilbeggan plant to its Athleague, Co Roscommon, Clonee, Co Meath, and Watergrasshill, Co Cork, plants.
Dunbia, formerly known as the Dungannon Meats Group, will consolidate its place in the prepacked fresh beef, lamb and pork market in the UK, where it supplies to supermarket multiples.
Kepak has nine processing and packing facilities across Ireland and the UK and processes more than 400,000 cattle, 2.5 million lambs and 15,000 tonnes of consumer foods each year. It employs more than 2,200 people internationally.
Dunbia is a major supplier of fresh and frozen beef for retail outlets in the UK.
Employing more than 2,000 here and in the UK, the company has nine other facilitates across the Republic, the UK and continental Europe.
