Carlisle's iconic Carr’s table water biscuits are set to become the latest flood-hit treats to return to shop shelves.

Manufacturer McVitie’s is poised for another step in its fightback from the floods, confirming these products will be back in stock this month.

Last week it confirmed its famous Ginger Nuts were back on sale – just over four months since the Carlisle site that makes them was swamped by water.

The Caldewgate site is the only place in the world that makes Carr’s table water biscuits.

Cumbrian spring water and the factory’s traditional brick ovens are key ingredients in their unique taste.

Production at the factory was halted on December 5 due to substantial flood damage to the electrical equipment and ovens.

After being submerged in 39.2 million litres of water, 540 tonnes of debris was cleared from the site to allow for normal production to get going again.

Mark Taylor, manufacturing director at United Biscuits, owner of the McVitie’s brand, spoke about the latest development.

He said: “We take great pride in our biscuits and in being able to give people their favourite snacks.

“Our recipes and production methods are steeped in history as old as the Carr’s brand itself.

“So there was no question of moving to a temporary production site during closure.

“The support we have had from the local and wider community has been phenomenal and it’s certainly shown what a big family we have here.”


Related articles:

Carlisle's McVitie’s factory back in full production this month

Carlisle floods lead to water biscuits and ginger nuts shortage


The Carr’s product line is the last one to re-start at the Carlisle factory.

All United Biscuits products will now start to re-appear on UK supermarket shelves.

Ted Linehan, savoury biscuits marketing director at United Biscuits, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Carlisle factory going at full-steam again.

“The team on the ground have done a remarkable job in getting us back on track so that we can get this product back on shelves in record time.

“We make over 80,000 tonnes of biscuits a year and these reach all corners of the globe.

“So it was very important to us that we get our supply going quickly but without compromising on the flavour and quality that we know our customers expect.

“The support we have received from retailers and customers alike during this time has been incredible and we are grateful for this – it seems absence really does make the heart grow fonder.

“It’s good to be back,” he added.