South Caernarfon Creameries started in 1938 when a group of local farmers came together to add value to their milk. Today the company mainly produces Cheddar, alongside other cheeses such as Red Leicester and Monterey Jack.
Following the completion of Project Dragon, a £25 million investment programme the creamery has increased its capacity to 23,000 tons of cheese a year, the company receives only Welsh milk from its members across north and mid Wales and processes it at Rhydygwystl, on the Llyn Peninsula.
The jobs at South Caernarfon Creameries are varied, with many opportunities to develop within the company.
Managing director, Alan Wyn-Jones said: “The business is growing, so it’s important that we have people who grow and develop with the business.
“It’s an exciting time to join the food industry. No day is the same, and the opportunities are there for young people to develop and move forward in their careers.”
Lois Williams, an Animal Science graduate from Aberystwyth University, is now a Technical Compliance Officer at South Caernarfon Creameries.
Speaking about her position at the company, Lois said: “What I like about my role is that I’m able to go around the site and I’m not stuck in the same room every day, and you get to meet lots of different people and work alongside our farmers.”
While the large scale operation at Rhydygwystl focuses on cheesemaking, there are many other opportunities within other areas of the business.
Elwyn Jones, compliance manager said: “There are several opportunities within this company - not only in making and packing cheese, but there are also all kinds of things such as engineering, mechanics, driving and laboratory work. So, for a young person looking for work in the local area, there’s no doubt that there are plenty of opportunities.”
With many young people from rural areas, compelled to seek work in larger towns, employers like South Caernarfon Creameries are a lifeline to rural communities and to the rural economy.
Meinir Parry, Sales and Marketing Coordinator said: “The creamery is located here on the Llyn Peninsula, a very rural area, so I feel very fortunate to have a job in a local Welsh community, and I haven’t had to leave. People usually have to travel much further afield to find employment, so the creamery is very important for work and supporting the local community.”
Whether you’re starting out in your career or looking for a change, the food and drink industry is full of rewarding opportunities. Visit our jobs notice board to start your journey today…