Sysco officially opens £23m Co Antrim facility creating 50 new jobs

Pictured at the official opening of Sysco Belfast (l-r): Robin Swann MP, First Minister Michelle O’Neill, Mark Lee, Chief Executive Officer, Sysco Ireland, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Julie Gilmour. (All images: Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye)

Global foodservice leader Sysco has officially opened its new purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility in Crumlin, representing a £23 million investment and the creation of 50 new jobs in Northern Ireland.

The launch of Sysco Belfast was marked by an event attended by First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, who joined Sysco in celebrating the milestone.

The 210,000 sq ft site underscores Sysco’s commitment to supporting local communities and suppliers across Northern Ireland, while also advancing its sustainability strategy.

The facility, designed to meet BREEAM standards, includes a large warehouse, a development kitchen, modern offices, a canteen, and gym facilities.

‘Confidence in Northern Ireland’s skills and talent’

Pictured at the official opening of Sysco Belfast (l-r): First Minister Michelle O’Neill, Mark Lee, Chief Executive Officer, Sysco Ireland, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.

Speaking at the opening, First Minister Michelle O’Neill said:

“This £23 million investment by Sysco is hugely important for our food and drink sector and our economy. As well as creating jobs and opportunities, they are supporting our farmers and our food producers.

“I think Sysco’s commitment to growth, innovation and excellence is much aligned with our priorities as an Executive. And this latest investment shows that they clearly share our confidence in the talent and skills of our people.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly added:

“Sysco is a global operation on the world stage and this major investment in this new facility here is a vote of confidence in what we have to offer in Northern Ireland.

“Our food and drinks sector is one of our greatest assets and this investment is an opportunity for local producers to access a wider market, increasing their profile and ensuring further growth, all of which will benefit our local economy.”

Supporting local producers

Pictured in the Warehouse at the official opening of Sysco Belfast (l-r): First Minister Michelle O’Neill, Mark Lee, Chief Executive Officer, Sysco Ireland and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.

Sysco Belfast strengthens the company’s ambition to grow its supplier network, giving more local producers the chance to reach new customers.

Mark Lee, Chief Executive of Sysco Ireland, said:

“The launch of Sysco Belfast is a proud moment for everyone at Sysco. This state-of-the-art facility has been designed to support growth, deliver service excellence and operate sustainably, ensuring we are well positioned to meet the evolving needs of our customers across Northern Ireland. It is also a place where our colleagues can thrive, and strong local partnerships can continue to grow.”

He added:

“At Sysco, we are committed to empowering local businesses to grow and thrive. The new Sysco Belfast facility will not only support our suppliers but also provide these businesses with access to a wider customer base, allowing them to expand their reach and enhance their product offerings. By connecting local producers with a larger network, we can help fuel their growth and success in an increasingly competitive market.”

Building on partnerships

Pictured at the official opening of Sysco Belfast (l-r): Gareth Clements, Head of Foodservice Sales, Sysco Northern Ireland, First Minister Michelle O’Neill, Kyle Greer, Development Chef, Sysco Northern Ireland, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Mark Lee, Chief Executive Officer, Sysco Ireland.

Sysco recently announced an exclusive distribution deal with Long Meadow Cider, an award-winning producer based in County Armagh.

Other recent supplier partnerships include Co. Armagh’s Forest Feast, known for plant-based snacking, and Maine 1949, a premium range from QuenchCo Ltd., makers of one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic soft drink brands.

With its Classic Drinks division of wines and spirits and its Ready Chef produce solutions, Sysco continues to lead the way in supporting hospitality and catering outlets across Ireland.

Lee continued:

“By operating from Sysco Belfast, we can strengthen the service we provide to our loyal Northern Ireland customers—many of whom have been with us since our early days in Lisburn—while also extending a warm welcome to new customers.

“While food is at the heart of what we do, people are our driving force. The opening of Sysco Belfast reflects our confidence in Northern Ireland and our commitment to building a team that can continue to deliver exceptional service and innovation.”