Almost 160 jobs under threat at historic McVitie's factory in Stockport

Almost 160 jobs are at risk at the historic McVitie's factory in Stockport, it was confirmed today. Pladis, the company behind McVitie's, confirmed restructuring proposals at the plant off Wellington Road North 'could potentially result in the loss of 159 out of 470 roles'.

Union bosses called the news 'devastating' and said it amounted to a 'one-third cut in staff'. The company said there would be 'full and meaningful consultation with employee representatives' and the union, Usdaw, said it would now enter into consultation talks with the company.

Pladis pointed to 'external headwinds such as rising inflation, increasing energy costs and supply chain disruption pushing up production costs'. Their statement, issued today, referenced 'a change in consumer demand'.

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Pladis also confirmed proposals to 'restructure' the factory 'subject to a full and meaningful consultation with employee representatives'. "The proposal could potentially result in the loss of 159 out of 470 roles," said the company.

"The proposal seeks to address growing external headwinds such as rising inflation, increasing energy costs and supply chain disruption pushing up production costs, at a time when the business faces a change in consumer demand.

"Manchester remains a critical part of pladis’ operations in the UK, producing well-known branded products, however the factory's operating model is no longer sustainable and must be addressed as part of the proposed changes."

Dave Gill, Usdaw's National Officer, said talks between the union and Pladis would be held. Reacting to the news he said: "This is devastating news for our members, many of