Saputo Dairy UK plans to close Kirkby Malzeard Creamery putting 80 jobs at risk

UK – Saputo Dairy UK has announced plans to close the Kirkby Malzeard creamery in North Yorkshire, a decision that could end over a century of cheese production in the village and place 80 jobs at risk. 

The company, a division of the Canadian dairy giant Saputo Inc., cited global consolidation efforts as the primary reason for the proposed closure, which is scheduled to take effect by July following a consultation process with employees. 

According to Saputo, production will be relocated to its modernized facility in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, where significant investments have been made to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

A report by industry sources indicates that the Kirkby Malzeard site, which specializes in blending and packing operations, was acquired by Saputo in 2021 as part of a £23 million purchase of Wensleydale Dairy Products. 

The facility has played a crucial role in North Yorkshire’s cheese-making tradition, and its potential closure has raised concerns over the loss of heritage and economic stability in the region. 

A spokesperson for the North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce described the site as a longstanding pillar of the local economy and warned that its closure could have lasting consequences for the community.

Saputo’s restructuring strategy has led to multiple closures across its global operations. Reports indicate that in addition to the Kirkby Malzeard proposal, the company has announced shutdowns in Australia, including the King Island Dairy, which is set to close by mid-2025. 

In the United States, several facilities in Wisconsin and South Dakota have also been affected by similar measures. In the UK, the proposed closure follows Saputo’s 2023 decision to shut down its Frome facility in Somerset, resulting in 170 job losses. 

The company has defended these actions as necessary steps to maintain long-term viability, stating that the changes will enable it to continue producing high-quality products while improving operational efficiencies.

Despite the planned closure, Saputo has reaffirmed its commitment to its Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes, a key site in North Yorkshire that will remain operational along with its visitor center. 

The company has also described its Nuneaton plant as a state-of-the-art facility that will take on much of the work currently performed in Kirkby Malzeard. 

Reports indicate that new roles will be created in Warwickshire, though there has been no confirmation on how many affected employees will have relocation opportunities.

The announcement has drawn reactions from local officials, unions, and community leaders, with calls for Saputo to reconsider its decision or provide adequate support for displaced workers. 

According to a representative from Unite the Union, ensuring fair treatment for employees remains a priority, with demands for meaningful assistance, including retraining and relocation packages. 

Local MP Julian Smith has also expressed concern, stating that he intends to engage in discussions with Saputo to explore potential alternatives or mitigation measures.

The consultation process will determine the final outcome, but for Kirkby Malzeard, the proposed closure represents a significant shift in the village’s economic and cultural landscape.

Reports suggest that the decision will be closely watched as a case study in balancing corporate efficiency with community impact.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE

Newer Post

Thumbnail for Saputo Dairy UK plans to close Kirkby Malzeard Creamery putting 80 jobs at risk

Bühler launches Stellar Technology to accelerate cell growth in food production

Older Post

Thumbnail for Saputo Dairy UK plans to close Kirkby Malzeard Creamery putting 80 jobs at risk

FDA bans Red No. 3 in food and drugs, manufacturers to reformulate by 2027

Be the first to leave a comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *