Isle of Man Meats claims a new distribution deal could help to potentially increase weekly output by more than a third by allowing the business to tap into increased sales opportunities in the UK.

The company has announced a three year partnership with trucking company Trade Distribution Limited as part of its strategy to expand the market for Manx meat both on and off the island.

Trade Distribution Limited are supplying two dedicated Isle of Man Meats trailers, along with a new refrigerated ’hanging meat’ trailer.

News of the deal comes as our sister paper the Isle of Man Examiner reported this week that it is only money from government that keeps the company running, a report to Tynwald will show.

Independent auditors have raised concerns that without the money (nearly £2m) to cover losses, the company, which runs the meat plant, would cease to operate.

Phil Parsons, plant director at Isle of Man Meats, at Ballafletcher Farm Road, Douglas, said: ’We’re very pleased to announce this great partnership between two successful businesses that share a commitment to quality.

’Before deciding on our distribution partner we conducted a thorough procurement process, with a particular focus on securing high standards of transparency and great value.

’Trade Distribution Limited were clearly the best and we’re looking forward to seeing their trailers with the Isle of Man Meats logo becoming a familiar sight on Manx roads, and in the UK.

’The trailers also provide an additional way to publicise our ’’Make Sure It’s Manx’’ campaign.’

Mr Parsons believes the enhanced distribution capability could increase the potential weekly output by around 35%.

Tim Baker MHK, chairman of Isle of Man Meats, said: ’It’s great to see two major local businesses working collaboratively.

’This partnership is good news for both companies and their employees, good for farmers, and for our customers who want high quality produce.

’Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the many benefits of buying high quality, fully traceable, meat from farms that they know and trust.

’Working with Trade Distribution Limited is part of our strategy to expand the market for our products by meeting that demand, and it follows our announcement earlier this year of our strategic partnership with Northgate Foods which is one of the UK’s biggest suppliers of fresh and frozen meat.

’The Northgate Foods and Trade Distribution Limited partnerships represent significant steps forward in a strategy that will significantly increase the market for meat produced by Manx farmers, and in doing so boost the local economy.’

Steve Pickett, managing Director, Trade Distribution Limited, echoed Mr Baker’s comments and said: ’We work with many leading local wholesalers for whom we provide dedicated trailers, and we are the Isle of Man market leader when it comes to refrigerated transport.

’Of course, we always welcome new business, but it’s especially pleasing when we get an opportunity to support the expansion of Isle of Man businesses in markets on and off-island.

’Isle of Man Meats’ growth plans will benefit significantly from our UK cold store, and our extensive UK network which ensures fast and efficient distribution.

’As with all our clients, Isle of Man Meats also have the reassurance of knowing that our service is supported by our fantastic team of 120 employees, based on the island and in the UK.’

Mr Pickett has also been helping to advise the Isle of Man government’s Brexit team on issues such as logistics. He recently appeared alongside government officials at a Brexit event organised by the Chamber of Commerce, for the benefit of island businesses.