Pilgrims Food Masters to close Southall factory with 220 jobs put at risk
The Collett Way site in Southall, is one of the four sites within its Noon business, the ethnic ready meals supplier.
The company said the proposal was due to the external market conditions that “continue to be extremely challenging” across the entire industry, “with difficult headwinds and the inflationary environment.”
Protect the business
Pilgrims Food Masters said this was “not a decision we take lightly” but said that after “extensive analysis and consideration” it is proposing to close the site to simplify it business structure and protect the business for the long term.
The company said it understood that the decision has an impact on colleagues, partners and the local community. Its intention is to redeploy affected colleagues wherever possible and for business to be diverted across the three remaining sites which will remain open.
Nick Robinson, chief executive officer at Pilgrim’s Food Masters said: “We have announced the proposed closure of our Collett Way site, an announcement which is not easy to make. However, we believe these changes are essential given the challenges facing our industry and to ensure we are sustainable in the long term.
Supporting colleagues
He added: "As always, our people remain our number one priority and we are committed to supporting colleagues affected through this process.”
The wider Pilgrim’s company employs around 60,000 people across the globe. The company produces a range of products including Richmond, Fridge Raiders, Mattesons and Wall’s.
The food market has been hit by the current challenges.
Bakkavor, the fresh food manufacturer, is proposing to close two factories - Bakkavor Salads in Sutton Bridge, Lincolnshire and Bakkavor Desserts in Leicester - which could impact 900 jobs.
This news comes as Pilgrim’s UK, the pork producer, is proposing to close its Bury St Edmunds and Coalville sites, as well as a shift to a four-day week at its Ashton plant, which could see the loss of 675 jobs.
BBF (Bright Blue Foods), the cake and baked goods manufacturer, has revealed it is proposing the closure of its Doncaster-based Sargents Bakeries.
