OKI job losses: 175 jobs to go at Cumbernauld base

ABOUT 175 Scottish jobs are to go at a Japanese electronics firm, it emerged today.
Lord McConnell on a visit to OKI's Cumbernauld site in 2005. The firm will axe 175 jobs. Picture: PALord McConnell on a visit to OKI's Cumbernauld site in 2005. The firm will axe 175 jobs. Picture: PA
Lord McConnell on a visit to OKI's Cumbernauld site in 2005. The firm will axe 175 jobs. Picture: PA

• 175 jobs in Cumbernauld are to go after Japanese firm OKI announce axe

• OKI will shed around half its workforce after restructuring

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Japanese firm OKI is to shed half of its workforce at its base in Cumbernauld, it was confirmed today, after a plans emerged this month for restructuring.

John Swinney. Picture: Ian RutherfordJohn Swinney. Picture: Ian Rutherford
John Swinney. Picture: Ian Rutherford

Finance secretary John Swinney visited the factory this morning to hold talks with management.

A company spokeswoman said: “We are aware this will be a significant blow to our staff and to the local community in Cumbernauld and as we enter into a period of consultation, our priority is to support affected employees whilst we go through this difficult process therefore no further details can be provided at this time.”

Jamie Hepburn, SNP MSP for Cumbernauld and Kilsyth, added: “This is a serious blow for employment in the area.

“My thoughts go out to every one of those affected and their families.

This is news nobody wants to hear.

“I have attempted to make contact with the management at OKI Cumbernauld to discuss this matter and also hope to raise this in Parliament next week.”

Since taking over the Burroughs site in 1987 and employing more than 500 at its peak, the reported announcement today cuts the workforce from 350 to around 175.

This development follows previous indications that OKI - headquartered in Japan – were to undertake a global restructuring. The cuts announced at the Cumbernauld site are out of proportion what are understood to be the global changes to the company’s workforce.

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Gregg McClymont, the Labour MP for Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch East, commented: “Everyone in Cumbernauld will be shocked by this news. It is important that everyone with an interest in OKI works together with them to find a solution which saves jobs.”