Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Bathroom manufacturer Ideal Standard is in consulation with the workforce after announcing plans which could see the loss of 249 jobs.
The bathroom manufacturer has announced the closure of its Middlewich ceramics factory, plus ceramics production sites in Revin and Dole in France. Production will remain in Hull, Rugely and Otely and the Development and Industrialisation centre located in Middlewich will relocate to Rugeley.
The news comes just months after Twyford closed its sanitaryware factory in Alsager and Jacuzzi announced that it would cut 15% of its workforce in the UK.
The group said in a statement “these proposals (are) necessary due to worsening market conditions and trends affecting the European construction and ceramics sanitary ware markets.”
“The UK and France continue to be core markets for Ideal Standard International and the company remains committed to maintaining a strong presence in both markets. The group will develop its business by investing in new products to serve the markets, strengthening customer service and continuing to build market competitiveness.
“The company and its management do not take these kinds of decisions lightly especially when it affects the livelihood of its employees. However, the company believes that this is a necessary step to regain efficiency and to safeguard the company’s current position and future prospects in the ceramics industry across Europe.
