Almost 100 Redruth factory workers to lose jobs

11:35am Thursday 1st May 2008

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Spiralling costs have forced almost 100 job losses at a Redruth meat factory.

Tulip Ltd (formerly Roach Foods) announced yesterday that it intended to reduce the number of employees at its Redruth site, resulting in the potential loss of around 98 meat processors and packers.

Drew Weir, operations director for Cornwall, highlighted ever-increasing costs in an industry that was over-capacity as the reason for the job losses.

Mr Weir said: "Obviously we are very disappointed that we have not been able to secure all of the positions at our Redruth site. However as you are no doubt aware the meat industry is currently over capacity. This, combined with spiralling raw material and processing costs, means that our Redruth operation must ensure that it is the lowest cost producer and that we can operate competitively in what is a very challenging trading environment.

"I can assure you that the proposed redundancies are in no way a reflection on the quality or dedication of our workforce."

Management will now enter into consultation with all employees, and their representatives, about the proposed redundancies.

Julia Goldsworthy, MP for Camborne and Falmouth, today spoke of her sadness at the news.

Ms Goldsworthy said: "News of proposed job cuts at Tulip is very sad indeed. It will be a massive blow to many of those personally affected by the 98 job cuts, but is also potentially a worrying indication of the state of the wider economy.

"Tulip need to ensure that there is proper consultation with staff on the terms that are agreed, and should ensure that as much support as possible is provided to help affected individuals find alternative employment.

"I will do whatever I can to ensure adequate support is provided -both by employer agencies and by government agencies, both of which have an important role to play."