Fears for 100 jobs as Scots bakery set to end production

MORE than 100 jobs could be lost with the closure of a food production factory.

Patak’s Breads is proposing to end production at its Cumbernauld bakery early next year and consultation has begun with the bakery’s 108 employees.

Workers were told of the plans on Monday following what management company Allied Bakeries described as “a considered analysis of the highly competitive market the business serves”.

Martin Brewis, Patak’s Breads general manager, said that the decision was not made lightly.

He said: “Whilst we are still open to alternatives to ending manufacture, the potential closure of the site has been a very difficult decision.

“Whilst we are lucky to have an extremely committed team at Cumbernauld, the market is tough. Today’s announcement is a response to the fiercely competitive market we operate in.”

Mr Brewis added that the company will support workers in securing alternative employment both within Patak’s parent company and in the local area.

Responding to the news, Jamie Hepburn SNP MSP for Cumbernauld and Kilsyth, called for reassurances from the company about the jobs.

Mr Hepburn said: “It is extremely concerning to hear a consultation has been launched to review the ongoing viability of Patak’s Breads in Cumbernauld. This is bad news for Cumbernauld and represents a real blow for many families.”