United Biscuits is to axe jobs at its McVitie’s plant in Glasgow, the company confirmed today (28 November) as the snacks group makes “major changes” at the site.
The GMB union claimed the company, set to be acquired by Turkey’s Yildiz Holding, is to cut 202 positions at the Tollcross site.
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United Biscuits said the total number of jobs to be lost would be lower, with moves to “restructure working practices and manufacturing operations” leading to the establishment of new posts.
Martin Glenn, United Biscuits’ chief executive, is said to have met with each shift at Tollcross this morning and delivered news that 202 of 700 jobs would go.
“This has come at the worst time of year in the run up to Christmas,” the GMB said in a statement.
United Biscuits said the move was part of its “ongoing commitment to deliver a modern, efficient and competitive operation”. It added: “Without these changes Tollcross will not have a sustainable future in the local community.”
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By GlobalDataA spokesperson told just-food the changes meant 202 jobs were at risk but said other posts would be introduced.
“It 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,” the spokesperson said.
Earlier this month, strikes began at United Biscuits’ Aintree plant in Liverpool after talks broke down between the GMB and United Biscuits over what the union called “imposed changes to terms and conditions of employment”.
The GMB said this week the first two of six one-day strikes had seen “solid” support from its members. No production took place, it said. Four further days of industrial action are still planned.
This story was last updated at 16:55 GMT.
