Moy Park decides against Ashbourne closure
Moy Park has said it will keep its Ashbourne poultry processing facility open but will downsize operations and reposition the site as a business-to-business supplier.
It comes after the company reported a sharp drop in profits, which it blamed on rising costs.
The GMB union, which has been representing factory staff, said it was “excellent news”.
In September Moy Park announced it would be closing the facility.
It has now decided to keep the site open with reduced staffing, and reshape operations to be a business-to-business supplier.
It said: “While the site will be downsized, 175 jobs will be saved as a result of this repositioning.
“This move will ensure we have a strong security of supply for future opportunities and provides contingency options.
“We are supporting the employees at the site and in our supply chain who have been impacted by the restructuring of the factory.”
Mick Coppin from the GMB said staff at the factory were pleased with the outcome.
“I have to give credit where it’s due – the business, they have reconsidered things, bought in experts and found a way with significant investment of actually keeping this site viable and therefore the long term, permanent jobs,” he said.
By Amy Phipps / BBC
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