Bernard Matthews Great Wichingham site may close
Hundreds of jobs have been put at risk after the poultry producer Bernard Matthews announced it was looking to close one of its sites.
The company said its factory at Great Witchingham, Norfolk, had become “loss-making and not commercially viable” despite recent investment.
The site, which was bought in 1955, currently employs about 600 people.
A spokesperson said it would offer colleagues alternative roles at sister sites if the closure was confirmed.
“We understand this will be extremely disappointing news for everyone concerned at Great Witchingham,” a company spokesperson said.
“Our key priority now is to hold consultations with all employees and their representatives and explore the full range of options before making any final decisions.
In 2023, Bernard Matthews reported losses of £10m, which was significantly lower than the £25m of losses it reported in 2022.
The company said it had carried out a review of its operations at its headquarters at Great Witchingham and now hoped to “invest and grow” its other sites across East Anglia.
“We are proposing to make changes to help us overcome the huge challenges facing our sector,” a spokesperson added.
BBC News