Talley’s latest to consider food factory consolidation

13th April 2026 By Staff Reporter | news@propertyticker.co.nz | @propertyticker

Agribusiness giant Talley’s has started consultation over the proposed closure of its Westport fish processing factory, with operations set to be consolidated into two other sites.

In a statement, Talley’s chief executive Tony Hazlett said it was looking at its Motueka and Timaru sites taking on processing currently done at Westport.

“The proposal reflects productivity and efficiency improvements made across Talley’s processing network, which now allows the total volume of fish to be processed through Talley’s Motueka and Timaru facilities,” Hazlett said.

He said no final decision had been made, and if the proposal went ahead all staff would be offered positions within the Talley’s group.

Around 80 people are employed at the Westport factory, with consultation taking place for two weeks. 

“Talley’s priority is to engage respectfully with staff throughout the consultation process, exploring options and providing support where needed,” the statement added.

It is the latest food factory consolidation considered over the past month across New Zealand.

Heinz Wattie’s confirmed in March that it will proceed with its proposal to close three factories in New Zealand.

And Canadian owned frozen food giant McCain is also closing of one of its two factories here, following a strategic review that will see it outsource vegetable processing.