Sportswear plant to shut down with loss of 60 jobs

Published on Wednesday 17 June 2009 10:13

A TOP sportswear firm is set to close its Lothian plant with the loss of around 60 jobs.

Workers at the Russell Europe distribution centre in Bathgate's Whitehill Industrial Estate were told their jobs were under threat earlier this month.

The company, previously known as Russell Athletic, has entered a consultation period with workers and it is understood it plans to close its operations in West Lothian within a year.

One worker, who asked not to be named, said: "It's come as a real blow to everyone and couldn't have come at a worse time. This will have a major impact on my family as my partner has also had their hours cut at work.

"I'll just have to hope I can find something in between the consultation period and leaving this place. It's a nightmare really."

A spokeswoman for the firm, which is owned by Fruit of the Loom, said the decision followed a company-wide review, and said it would provide support to all employees affected.

Another base in Bain Square, Livingston – where around 50 are employed – is unaffected by the changes.

Len Marbury, the company's Europe chief executive officer, added: "We are having to take a very hard look at all of our operations worldwide due to the poor economic conditions we are operating under, as most other companies are.

"As part of that ongoing process we have announced our distribution centre located in Bathgate will close over a period of 12-18 months. Activities will transfer to other existing company distribution facilities which are closer to both suppliers and the customers they serve. We are doing our utmost to support our employees through this time."

West Lothian Council has said it plans to seek talks over the possible job losses at the distribution centre as unemployment in the county continues to rise.

Martyn Day, executive councillor for development and transport, said: "Unfortunately, this is another disappointing jobs setback for West Lothian.

"We understand the company is taking this action after reviewing its European distribution and logistics operations and it has proposed closing operations in Bathgate over the next 12-18 months.

"We will be seeking a meeting with the company to discuss the situation.

"We will also be working with our partners to provide support, advice and assistance to employees at this difficult time."