'We lost our equipment, our stock and the space we’ve worked hard to build': Fire destroys production facility of Northern Ireland food producer just days before major new deal announcement
Former Ulster Rugby players’ artisan meat business among firms hit as blaze destroys Corries Meats facility, with company thanking emergency services, partners and community for support
A Northern Ireland food producer has described a recent fire as a “significant blow” after its production facility was destroyed in a major blaze at the weekend, while thanking emergency services, neighbouring businesses and community for their support.
Hellbent, the artisan meat company owned by former Ulster Rugby players Louis Ludik and Schalk van der Merwe, was among the businesses affected when fire tore through the Corries Meats facility on Crossnamuckley Road, Newtownards.
The alarm was raised at around 7.15pm on Saturday after a member of the Corrie family, who own Corries Meats, spotted smoke coming from the building while passing the site.
Dozens of firefighters were deployed to the scene as the fire quickly took hold and spread through the premises. The cause of the blaze has not yet been confirmed.
While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, Hellbent confirmed its production facility within the site was completely destroyed.
In a statement shared on social media, they said: “Our production facility was destroyed by fire. We lost our equipment, our stock and the space we’ve worked hard to build. It’s a significant blow. Everyone is safe. That’s what matters most.
“To the fire service, who worked through the night, thank you. To Corries, our landlords and neighbours, we’re with you in this. To our team and everyone who has reached out, thank you.”
The devastating disaster comes just as the Holywood gourmet food and drink producer has agreed a significant and exciting deal to distribute the new Guinness 232 Coffee across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Hellbent, which has built a strong reputation for South African-inspired meats including sausages and burgers, has been steadily expanding into additional food and drink categories, including wines, brandy and beer. The company recently also secured a listing with Sainsbury’s Northern Ireland.
The company says it is now focused on rebuilding following what it described as a devastating blow, while continuing to support its staff and partners through the recovery process.
Online Corries Meats also thanked customers and the local community, posting: “We apologise for the temporary disruption to supply. We thank you all for your understanding during this difficult time.”