The SNP have condemned the decision to close a Forres factory and shift production south of the Border.
Forres New World Foods, which produces meat snacks as part of Valeo Foods UK, confirmed that it is set to close factory doors and move production to Wigan and York.
The company is eyeing a closing date of April 30 for the Moray site, citing logistical issues and the area’s “remote location” as the reasons behind the closure.
Reacting to the closure Emma Roddick MSP for the Highlands and Islands told The National: “This is really disappointing news for the local workforce and I struggle to accept the weak justification which has been offered for the closure.”
She continued: “The north of Scotland, including Moray, has consistently demonstrated our world-class quality food and drink production. It is inexcusable … we should instead be celebrated and held up as a very desirable brand and exceptional place to do business.
“This is driven in part by UK governments continuing to allow the Highlands and Moray to be treated as separate to the rest of the mainland and failing to take action on unfair surcharges, be it postage or electricity.”
Her comments were echoed by Business Secretary Richard Lochhead who branded the closure “deeply disappointing”.
A spokesperson for Valeo Foods UK said: “Forres presents significant logistical challenges due to its remote location. These challenges have made it increasingly difficult to maintain cost efficiencies, which are crucial in today’s competitive market.
“The York site has the immediate capacity to handle current production volumes, and it is well-positioned to support both our short- and medium-term growth objectives.”
Valeo Foods UK and New World Foods have been contacted for comment.
