Unite the Union is claiming a victory after negotiations over the fate of 2 Sisters plant in Wolverhampton resulted in the poultry processor deciding to keep the site open and retain all jobs.
The reversal of its earlier decision will mean 180 jobs will be saved following a ‘meaningful consultation.
A spokesman for 2 Sisters said the firm had decided to now use the site to “develop a new customer base over the next few months and we will begin transition to a seven-day working operation. As a result the site will remain open and all jobs saved.”
“Colleagues at site have shown that they have both the skills and levels of commitment necessary to make this new venture successful and we would like to thank them for their patience and positive attitude demonstrated throughout an uncertain period,” said the 2 Sisters spokesman. “We would also wish to acknowledge the efforts of Unite in working in partnership with the company to secure jobs at Site E.”
Unite national officer for the food sector Joe Clarke said: “The Wolverhampton site of 2 Sisters has now been secured due to cooperative dialogue between Unite and the management.
“We are pleased to announce that about 180 jobs – the total workforce – have been secured for the foreseeable future. Constructive engagement has led to increased flexibility and also the introduction of new products has provided a lifeline.
“We looked forward to a positive relationship with 2 Sister going forward.”