BREAKING: A devastating fire has ravaged the family-run G Simmons & Sons Pork Scratchings factory overnight in Walsall. The incident, reported around 19:18 GMT on Sunday, has left the iconic local business in ruins, though officials confirmed that no injuries occurred.
The fire, which involved two large drums of cooking oil, required a massive response from emergency services, with 13 appliances and 95 firefighters mobilized to tackle the blaze. As of Monday morning, the fire response has been scaled down to just two units, indicating the situation is stabilizing.
In a heartfelt statement on social media, the business expressed profound gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “Right now, we are carefully working through the recovery process, assessing the damage, and doing everything possible to rebuild and resume operations as soon as we are able.” The factory, which specializes in producing pork scratchings—a beloved snack in the Black Country—is temporarily closed today as the family navigates this crisis.
Graham Simmons founded the business in the early 1970s as a butcher in Willenhall, later transitioning to focus solely on pork scratchings with the help of his sons, Shaun and Mark. Their dedication and hard work have made the company a staple in local supermarkets and a favorite for online delivery.
The fire’s impact goes beyond physical damage; it threatens the livelihoods of the family and their employees. “This situation is challenging, and we truly appreciate your patience, understanding, and support during this difficult time,” the company added, highlighting the emotional toll on everyone involved.
As the recovery process unfolds, G Simmons & Sons Pork Scratchings will keep the public updated on their progress. The community is encouraged to rally behind the family during this difficult period, as they work tirelessly to restore their cherished business.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, and support your local businesses as they navigate these challenging circumstances.
