Glens of Antrim Potatoes Limited, a long-standing agri-foods business operating from sites in Cushendall and Ballymena, has entered administration and ceased trading, with 95 employees made redundant.
Impact on workforce and local growers
Established in 1972, the company had been growing and packing potatoes and producing a hand-cooked crisp brand for supermarkets and grocery chains across Ireland for more than five decades. The administrators said the business had been hit by sustained pressures that damaged cashflow and left no solvent option other than to request the appointment of joint administrators.
The appointment has prompted concern among political and industry figures in North Antrim. North Antrim MP Jim Allister described the development as a significant blow to the agricultural sector, noting both the immediate job losses and the wider implications for growers who supplied the business.
"It is very disappointing to see that Glens of Antrim Potatoes has gone into administration. This is a substantial blow to the agricultural sector. Not only are 95 jobs being lost, but there is a big network of growers which could be left in the lurch."
The administrators, Interpath, said directors had explored options including refinancing and investment, but ultimately could not identify a solvent path forward. In their statement they highlighted the broader pressures facing the agri-food sector in recent years, citing rising input costs and challenges across supply chains.
- Company: Glens of Antrim Potatoes Limited
- Sites: Cushendall and Ballymena
- Jobs lost: 95 (all except a small skeleton staff retained to support administrators)
- Established: 1972
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Business activity | Growing and packing potatoes; hand-cooked crisps brand; supermarket supply |
| Administrators | Interpath (joint administrators appointed) |
| Trading status | Ceased to trade following appointment |
Interpath managing director Stuart Irwin reflected on the long history of the business and the wider implications of its collapse for the local community. He said the outcome was "tremendously sad" for staff, the agri-food sector in Northern Ireland, and communities in Ballymena and Cushendall.
"Glens of Antrim has been growing and supplying potatoes across Ireland for over 50 years, so this is a tremendously sad outcome for the business, its dedicated team, the agri-food sector in Northern Ireland, and the wider community in Ballymena and Cushendall."
Local ramifications are likely to include immediate financial and employment consequences for those dismissed and potential disruption for the network of growers who supplied the company. The loss of a regular buyer can create uncertainty for farming households and could have knock-on effects through local supply chains.
Politicians and trade bodies will now be watching for any interest from potential buyers. The MP for North Antrim expressed hope that a suitable purchaser will emerge, reflecting concern for both jobs and the continuity of business for growers who depended on the long-established link with Glens of Antrim.
The administrators confirmed only a small core team will remain to assist with the process. Beyond that, details on creditor meetings, realisations and the prospect of any sale or asset disposal will be provided by Interpath as the administration progresses.
For Antrim and surrounding communities, the immediate priority will be support for the displaced workforce and clarity for growers about the short-term market for their crops. The situation also underscores wider pressures in the agri-food sector, where rising costs have strained margins and cashflow for businesses across the supply chain.
