ROBERTS Bakery is set for a huge expansion.

The 130-year-old family-run firm has signed a 15-year lease for a newly refurbished facility at Winsford Industrial Estate.

Set within 2.45 acres, the 66,000-square-foot unit will become the new site for the bakery’s biscuit manufacturing division, The Little Treats Bakery.

The deal was completed by estate agents, Legat Owen.

Matt Pochin, director at Legat Owen, said: “Winsford Industrial Estate has grown to become a significant regional employment location with major manufacturing and distribution facilities. 

“Roberts Bakery are a notable addition to the Estate and will be creating new jobs and reinforcing Winsford’s position as a key industrial location in the North West.”

Roberts Bakery, owned by Frank Roberts & Sons Limited, is a fourth-generation family business dating back to 1887.

Plans for the new unit in Winsford were announced at the end of last year following an £18 million cash injection, with the company describing the move as “the most important operational overhaul in decades”.

Located four miles from the Northwich headquarters, the Winsford facility will become a “centre of excellence for biscuit production”, according to a company spokesperson.

Existing plant equipment will be moved to the site, along with the introduction of a fast-track robotic manufacturing system.

The building will also provide storage capacity for finished products and raw materials.

This move will allow the firm to rebuild two of its bread bakeries and improve the operational layout at its headquarters.

It should also ensure job security for all 730 members of staff across the company’s sites.

Roberts' managing director Bill Thurston, said: “This is a significant investment plan which will allow us to rebuild and revitalise the company and make sure it is fit for the future.

“The business has shown terrific resilience in recent months, and we are indebted to the Roberts family, financial backers, key stakeholders, and our people who believe in this brand.

“Now is the time for a new chapter in our 130-year history.”