The new hub will operate as a food processing and distribution centre, focusing on ready meals, soups, and sauces. IGC, which supplies UK supermarkets such as Iceland, expects most roles to be full-time. An IGC spokesperson confirmed: "The proposed change of use will facilitate in the region of 550 jobs, almost all of which will be full time. It is anticipated approximately 300 of these will be staff moving from their existing premises, but with approximately 200 new roles created initially."

There is potential for the total number of full-time jobs to reach 760 as operations expand, providing further employment opportunities.

Positive local impact

The new facility comes at a crucial time following the loss of 350 jobs at a nearby Yodel distribution centre in Shaw. The creation of new roles at IGC’s Chadderton site could help offset some of the employment losses in the area.

Councillor Peter Davies, during a recent planning meeting, praised the project for its contribution to local job creation: "This is why we have planning. It brings employment to the area, jobs... with this coming to planning, it brings good, decent jobs, manufacturing."

Planning approval and future development

Oldham Council has given unanimous approval for the site’s use as a food processing hub, although any further modifications to the building will require separate applications. The facility, which covers over 33,000 square metres of warehouse space and 10,000 square metres of office space, will operate 24 hours a day. It also includes more than 300 car parking spaces, making it well-equipped to handle large-scale operations.

While the project was largely welcomed, one objection was raised regarding potential noise and odour concerns, given the site's proximity to Radclyffe School and nearby residential areas.

With the facility now approved, job seekers are encouraged to watch for upcoming recruitment announcements from IGC as the company prepares to begin operations.

‍