Food manufacturer, United Biscuits has announced that 202 jobs are in danger at its McVitie's site in Glasgow as part of a restructuring programme.
However, new opportunities will be unlocked with the creation of 36 new roles and also the introduction of 19 up-skilled operator positions available, which former employees can apply for.
United Biscuits released this statement: “United Biscuits can confirm that it has today announced proposals to restructure working practices and manufacturing operations at our Tollcross site.
“This is part of our ongoing commitment to deliver a modern, efficient and competitive operation and without these changes Tollcross will not have a sustainable future in the local community. We are now discussing the proposal with employees, employee representatives and local government.
“We have been working with Scottish Enterprise and appreciate their support that has enabled us to safeguard jobs. However, regrettably we do anticipate redundancies through this process and are committed to working with all parties to minimise the impact. Individuals who may be impacted will be able to benefit from the PACE outplacement programme.
“These major changes unfortunately mean redundancies and 202 jobs are at risk, out of circa 680 roles on site. However, it also means some new opportunities will be unlocked with the creation of 36 new roles and also the introduction of 19 up-skilled operator positions available.
“This would mean an overall headcount reduction of 166 jobs.”
Harry Donaldson, GMB Scotland union regional secretary said:
“This has come at the worst time of year in the run up to Christmas and the workforce in understandably devastated.
“Many of the factory workers are women, the staff are not paid a huge amount, and they will have had plans for Christmas that will now be in serious doubt.
“We are now looking to get around the table with management and try and minimise the impact of these cuts on the workers.”
Currently United Biscuits employs 7,100 people globally, with 4,600 at its UK locations in London, Manchester, Carlisle, Halifax, Liverpool and Leicestershire.
In November, Murat Ülker’s Yildiz Holdings acquired McVitie’s factory in a £2bn agreement. Kellogg’s and Burton’s also took part in acquiring United Biscuits.
