Pukka Pies has invested £7m in its Leicestershire factory, as it continues with its UK expansion programme.

The money has been spent on increasing its plant size, as well as state-of-the-art ‘green’ refrigeration plant, which will enable significant economies of scale to be achieved, said the firm.

New materials storage areas, increased freezer and chilled despatch capacity and new distribution docks for vehicles have also been added to the site in Syston, which produces more than 60 million pies a year.

Charnwood MP Stephen Dorrell attended the official opening on Friday 20 January, and alongside co-managing directors Tim and Andrew Storer, unveiled a commemorative plaque.

The firm said the increased plant size means it is well placed to continue expanding its business in the UK, as well as offering improved working conditions for its 280 employees.

Tim Storer said: “This is a very proud moment in the continued development and expansion of Pukka Pies. In challenging economic times, we have enjoyed excellent levels of growth and this new factory will enable us to continue our success story.”

The new £2.2m refrigeration plant will enable annual energy savings of 225,000kwh and a service life reduction of 13,000 tonnes of C02. The firm is also working to divert all its waste away from landfill.