Warburtons to Close Bakery
Warburtons, the UK’s largest independent baker, is planning to close its factory at Blackpoolwith the loss of 71 jobs as a result of the tough economic climate and competitive market place.
“The proposed changes are designed to make our manufacturing operations more efficient which will help us better meet the demands of our customers and consumers across the UK,” says Jonathan Warburton, chairman of Warburtons.
Rising raw materials costs and a decline in the UK bakery market have impacted on the financial performance of Warburtons. Pre-tax profits fell by more than a third from £26 million to £16.3 million for the year ended September 24, 2011 as turnover edged ahead from £492 million to £495 million.
Established in 1876, Warburtons currently employs about 4,500 people across 11 bakeries and 13 depots, and produces over two million bakery products each day.
