Sheffield mini ovenmaker hires 50 after pandemic serves up takeaway food boom

Merrychef is hiring at its factory on Provincial Park, Ecclesfield, after coronavirus restrictions saw a sharp rise in food outlets doing takeways and click-and-collect.

It is also spending £1m ‘plus’ on a laser cutting machine.

The firm makes small ovens that cook food fast and don’t need a flue or chimney. They are most commonly found in coffee shops.

The company, which celebrates its 70th year in 2021, had its second-best quarter on record at the end of 2020. Equipment made in Sheffield is exported to South Korea, Chile, the USA and Australia.

Colin Lacey, Merrychef vice president and managing director said “To be able to invest in the Sheffield factory and create additional jobs in the local economy is particularly poignant right now, as we celebrate 70 years.”

Merrychef employs 220 in Ecclesfield.

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