Danish Crown to shift Aalborg food production to Vejle facility by 2028
DENMARK – Danish Crown has announced plans to relocate its food production operations from its long-standing Aalborg facility on Østerbro to other sites, with Vejle identified as the primary destination for future manufacturing.
The decision follows an internal review that concluded new investment in machinery for ready-to-eat meatballs and similar products would be better suited to locations offering more space and flexibility than the current city-centre plant.
Production relocation plan
According to the company, production at the Aalborg factory will be phased out gradually, with a full shutdown expected by 2028 as operations are transferred to facilities better suited for expansion.
Executives stated that the planned investment, described as a multi-million US$ (exact amount not disclosed), is intended to support increased output of convenience foods aimed at consumers seeking quicker meal options.
The Vejle factory has been identified as the preferred site due to its capacity to accommodate new equipment and allow further development of the company’s processed food segment.
Workforce and site future
The Aalborg site currently employs 140 workers, and while the relocation will affect all staff, the company expects most employees will be offered positions at other facilities within its network.
Management indicated that nearby operations, including a sausage production plant in Svenstrup located less than 10 kilometres away, are likely to absorb part of the workforce as staffing needs arise.
The factory, which has operated in Aalborg for nearly six decades, is now surrounded by residential developments and public parks, conditions that the company says limit its ability to upgrade or expand the site.
As a result, the land is expected to be put up for sale for commercial redevelopment once production ceases, although no timeline has been set for initiating the sale process.
Before a final decision is confirmed, the proposal will be reviewed through internal consultation processes involving employee representatives, with discussions expected to continue in the coming period.
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