Borders knitwear firm Peter Scott plans job cuts

Hawick-based knitwear maker Peter Scott is set to pay off almost a third of its workforce, blaming “lower than expected turnover and tough trading conditions”.

Peter Scott is seeking voluntary redundancies at its Hawick base. Picture: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

It is understood that 20 jobs will go in the coming weeks and the company has confirmed it was seeking voluntary redundancies before entering a 30-day consultation period.

A spokesperson said: “Despite best efforts to grow the business, lower than expected turnover and tough trading conditions dictated a review of the business strategy and structure which may result in job losses.

“The proposed job losses may become a necessary action to ensure the company’s ongoing operations and enable Peter Scott to create a firm platform for future growth.

“In an attempt to avoid compulsory redundancies as part of this proposal, the company is prepared to consider employees who wish to volunteer for redundancy. If there are sufficient volunteers, this may reduce or eliminate the need for compulsory redundancies.”