2 Sisters Food Group is planning to close three UK poultry sites with the loss of 900 jobs. The firm has started a consultation over closure of Cambuslang in Scotland, affecting 450 jobs; Site C in Smethwick, affecting 350 jobs; and Site E in Wolverhampton, affecting 100 jobs.
“We do have areas of significant challenge and regrettably 900 roles will be at risk at three sites loss-making sites which we propose to close,” said a spokesman.
“Our focus now will be to support all affected colleagues and explore all alternative options available to us before making any final decisions.”
However, the firm said it was creating 1,000 new jobs at several other poultry sites. At Willand, Devon there are 300 new roles, at Site D, West Bromwich there are potentially 400 new roles; at Coupar Angus, Scotland there are 250 new roles.
“As we continue to build a better business, we are simplifying how we work and investing in the areas that can make the most positive difference to our UK poultry operations,” the spokesman said. “This means that we will be creating up to 1,000 new roles within the poultry supply chain.”
Unite said it would now enter consultation with the company and press the case for investment and alternatives to the planned closures in a series of meetings with the company over the coming days and weeks.
Commenting Unite national officer for food Joe Clarke said: “These plans have caused a lot of uncertainty and dismay for the workers involved. Unite will be doing everything it can to support our members and secure their futures following this announcement.”