The company said it was part of a “detailed review” as part of a “programme to improve the efficiency” of its bread distribution network.
Allied Bakeries was currently consulting with the affected employees and was talking to union representatives about the proposals. The company said no closing date will be finalised until the consultation was finalised. Reports indicated the depot could close as early as November.
Consulting with 53 employees
A spokesperson for Allied Bakeries said: “We are currently consulting with our employees and their union representatives about these proposals, which if accepted would, regrettably, result in 53 people being placed at risk of redundancy.
“We understand that this will be a difficult and unsettling time for our employees and their families.”
The company said that if the proposals were accepted it would work to find the affected staff new employment.
The spokesman added: “If the proposals are accepted every effort will be made to help those people affected secure alternative employment, either within other parts of Allied Bakeries operations, or externally in the local area, including the wider network of businesses owned by Associated British Foods.
“Our proposals in no way reflect the commitment and efforts of those affected.”
‘This unsettling time’
Labour Member of Parliament for Alyn and Deeside Mark Tami commented on social networking site Twitter: “Sad to hear that Allied Bakeries are planning to shut their site in Saltney. My thoughts are with the employees during this unsettling time.”
Allied Bakeries is in talks with the Bakers, Food and Allied Bakers Union (BFAWU) about the planned job losses.
In March this year Allied Bakeries and the BFAWU agreed a last-minute deal to avert strike action.
Members of the union had voted for strike action at Allied Bakeries in Cardiff over changes to holiday entitlements and shift patterns. The union said that 56 out of 70 workers who cast ballots voted for the action.