2 Sisters plant closure to cost 450 jobs
A spokesperson said: “Following an extensive period of consultation with colleagues and external agencies, it is with regret that we can confirm the closure of our site in Cambuslang.
“This is not a decision we take lightly. Since day one, we have been very open on the big challenges the factory faces. In fact we have been trying extremely hard to reverse the position for a considerable period of time. We have invested several million pounds since 2014 and expanded by taking on more people, yet it is still a heavily loss-making operation.
“We have tried every turnaround option available to us for several years, ranging from cost reduction measures and an attempt to grow the business organically. It has made little difference. And after many hours of talks in recent weeks, we have not seen any credible proposal to change our view.”
It had warned about the potential closure of the site back in February, along with its Smethwick and Wolverhampton facilities. At the time, 2 Sisters said it was simplifying its operations and investing in areas where it could make the “most positive” difference.
The spokesperson outlined the timeline for the closure. “Work at the facility is expected to end in August and we will now explore all options in the gradual movement of product to other sites. We will continue to support all our colleagues with all the redeployment options available to us, whether inside or outside the business.”
“And we will of course continue to invest in Scotland when the timing is right, as evidenced by our recent announcement to expand operations at our Coupar Angus site and create 250 new jobs.”
Local MSP Clare Haughey described the announcement as “devastating for Cambuslang”.
Very disappointed with today's news that the 2 Sisters factory in Cambuslang is set to close this August. This announcement is devastating for the area and local communities, and I wish to reassure those affected that I stand ready to assist them in any way I can. pic.twitter.com/HoqrhQjJ5E
— Clare Haughey MSP (@haughey_clare) 12 April 2018
The food group also recently announced that it has entered into consultation with colleagues and customers at its Five Star Fish site, with 400 jobs on the line.
2 Sisters unveiled a new management course to help expand the number of apprenticeships at the business.
