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A family-run pork scratching factory in West Midlands A home has been gutted by a “disastrous” fire ahead of Christmas, putting breakfast supplies at risk.
West Midlands Fire Service responded to the G.I. in Bloxwich, Walsall. More than a dozen crews were dispatched Sunday evening to battle a massive fire at Simmons & Sons Pork Scratchings.
Eyewitnesses said thick smoke was spreading across the area as firefighters worked through the night to control the blaze at the industrial unit.
The company, a well-known supplier of pork scratchings and crackling snacks, has now issued a statement to customers, reading: “Last night our factory […] Felt the fire. This has been a devastating event for our family-run business and our team, and it is something we are still coping with.
“We are incredibly grateful that no one was injured. Right now, we are carefully working through the recovery process, assessing the damage, and making every effort to rebuild and resume operations as quickly as possible.”
Pork scratchings, strips of salted pork skin cooked until crisp, are believed to have originated in the area known as the Black Country, and boomed in popularity in the early 20th century. The fire has left the business temporarily unable to produce any products, raising concerns about the supply chain and availability in stores.
Local residents expressed sympathy on social media, while firefighters said the fire had started in two large drums of cooking oil and took more than 14 hours to completely extinguish.
The company said: “This situation is challenging, and we really appreciate your patience, understanding and support during this difficult time. Your continued trust means a lot to us.”
One well-wisher wrote: “Sad news but as you say no one was injured. Hopefully you can sort things out quickly and put this behind you. As a retired small business owner I understand how upsetting these things can be.”
The company has its roots in the hearty food tradition of the Black Country, having grown from a small butcher shop to one of the leading producers of pork scratchings in the UK.
Founded 40 years ago by Graham Simmons, the business started by making sausages, burgers, black pudding, faggots and pork scratchings in the back of the family shop in Walsall. Over time, scratchings proved so popular that they became the company’s signature product. In 1994, Simons moved to a purpose-built factory in Bloxwich, where production expanded.
The business is today run by Graham’s sons, Sean and Mark, and supplies supermarkets including Asda and Morrisons.