The firm behind cupboard-filler products such as Cup a Soup, Mr Kipling and Super Noodles has recorded a big sales boom.

Premier Foods, which operates a huge Batchelors factory in Ashford, says it has been working at "maximum capacity" in order to meet the increased demand from shoppers amid the coronavirus lockdown.

Bisto, Oxo and Loyd Grossman sauces are among other much-sought-after products made by Premier Foods - which employs about 300 people at its branch in Ashford specialised at making Paxo products.

Sales for the firm soared by 15% in March during the run-up and beginning of the nationwide lockdown.

Its trading statement said: "Volumes have started to reduce from the exceptional levels seen in March, although are still expected to continue to be higher than average patterns of demand.

"This reflects more meals being eaten at home than usual due to recent measures set out by the government and hence increased demand for the group's product ranges."

As a result of the sales boom, bosses have decided to give each factory worker two extra days of annual leave and a £250 cash bonus.

The statement adds: “The group also takes its responsibility as a major UK food manufacturer very seriously and is working closely with its customers to ensure maximum availability of its product ranges for consumers.”

Premier Foods also owns the likes of Homepride, Sharwood's, Angel Delight and Smash.

Shares in the company have shot up by about 20% following the sales boom announcement.

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