Unions claim over 350 jobs at pladis’s Jacob’s UK production site are under threat
The pladis UK headquarters in London, which also serves as its global HQ.
An industry union has expressed concern around the potential loss of over 350 jobs at a pladis bakery production site at Aintree in the UK by the end of next year, which has made its well-known brand of Jacob’s crackers, writes Neill Barston.
The company confirmed that it is not stating a figure of roles in Merseyside affected by its decision, though it stated that a consultation is now under way with staff, as it seeks to adapt the site to meet future consumer demand.
According to the GMB union, a total of 763 workers from the local area are employed by the business, the job losses expected to impact on a total of 361 present employees, according to its evaluation of the situation.
In correspondence shown to Confectionery Production, reportedly between pladis and an MP in the area, the company stated that it was making the move to restructure the business in order to ensure the company’s legacy.
Lisa Ryan, GMB Regional Organiser, said: “This decision will leave many workers feeling frustrated and worried. “In the run up to Christmas last year, GMB members at the site were on the picket line fighting for better pay. The workers won the pay they deserved. “We will fight tooth and nail for the best outcome for Jacob’s workers.”
Commenting on the move, pladis explained that modifications to its Aintree facility would be required to ensure its facilities remained competitive.
The business issued a statement. It read: “Jacob’s is one of the most iconic brands in the UK and has been around for over 100 years. To ensure it can remain for another 100 years, it is essential we address the current constraints we have at Aintree. We have therefore proposed some changes at the site which include a significant investment in the infrastructure but reducing the overall site footprint. This proposal will now be subject to consultation with our employees as it could result in a reduction in roles at Aintree from December 2024. We will do everything we can to support our colleagues through this uncertain time.”