Over 3,500 jobs could go in the UK fresh produce sector as businesses are forced to adjust to the economic downturn, according to analysts Plimsoll.

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Up to 75% of UK fresh produce firms will need to cut jobs, Plimsoll said today (14 July), with one unnamed firm predicted to axe over 800 jobs.


In its analysis of the sector, Plimsoll found a sixth of the 1,200 firms studied would need to “consolidate immediately”.


David Pattison, senior analyst at Plimsoll, said: “The 200 companies we have identified as in danger need to act now if they are to survive. It is very important they review their entire business cost-base and take action now to significantly reduce their outgoings.


“Whilst job losses are undoubtedly bad news for any company, such decisive action may be called for to guarantee the ultimate survival of the business – even if this means the business is 30 or 50% smaller than it was.”

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