The manufacturer announced that it had entered into a consultation process over a proposal to reduce headcount across several departments at the Tottle Bakery. It is understood that 131 jobs could be at risk of redundancy.
A spokesman for the company said it was drawing up plans to cut staff numbers following a ‘comprehensive’ review of cold pie volume.
“This is due to changing demand in a competitive trading environment and to ensure we can continue to support the long-term sustainable future of roles at the site,” the spokesman added.
Consulting employees
“We will be working closely with all our employees to support them over the coming weeks, as well as meeting colleagues affected on an individual basis to offer practical support and advice through this period.”
The Compleat Food Group was formed through the merger of Addo Food Group and Winterbotham Darby in January 2021. Since the merger, Compleat has bolstered its business with a number of acquisitions.
Crewe-based Wrights Food Group, the savoury bakery, sweet pastry and ready meals manufacturer, was acquired in the same year as the merger.
Acquisition journey
In October 2023, Compleat acquired plant-based cheese maker Palace Culture for an undisclosed sum, building on its portfolio of existing plant-based properties, including meat-alternatives brand Squeaky Bean and chilled pickles and ferments brand Vadasz.
Last year saw a flurry of M&A activity for the company, with the twin acquisitions of SK Foods and Zorba Food in February, followed by the purchase of Harvey & Brockless in September.
Meanwhile, supermarket chain Morrisons has opted against closing its Rathbones bakery site, saving 138 jobs.
Morrisons will keep the site open at a reduced capacity and without the production of bread and making fewer, more specialist bakery products. However, 270 employees have agreed to a voluntary redundancy package already.
