South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has expressed his deep concern over reports that Arla Foods have today (18 October) announced that proposed changes to operations at their Lockerbie site could result in the relocation or loss of around 22 jobs.
Arla Foods currently operate a fresh milk processing plant alongside a cheese and butter production facility from their Lockerbie site. However, they have today announced that a proportion of the butter currently produced at the Lockerbie site will be transferred to Westbury, Wiltshire. This change in production method could result in the relocation or loss of around 22 Lockerbie-based roles.
Speaking about the announcement, South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth stated: “I am deeply concerned at the prospect of 22 job losses in Lockerbie. There has been a lot of investment in the plant in recent years and it is hugely important for the many local farmers whose milk goes to the site. But most importantly it is a major employer in the Lockerbie area. Any jobs losses will be a tragedy for those affected and a real blow to the local economy at what is a very uncertain time for many companies. If any of the current workforce do have to leave, I will be strongly urging Arla to avoid at all costs compulsory redundancies”.
Arla Foods have stated that they will be entering into full consultation with colleagues affected by the proposal. The company has stated that it hopes they will be able to transfer 12 employees to other vacant positions at the Lockerbie site, as well as looking at whether it will be possible to fill vacant positions at other Arla sites. They have also added that they are considering applications for voluntary redundancy from the site. Arla Foods have said they will continue to produce milk, cheese and whey butter from the site.
