Fraserburgh fish processing plant to close

ONE of Aberdeenshire’s leading fish processing companies is to close with the loss of more than 50 jobs.
Cod and haddock are landed at Fraserburgh. Picture: PACod and haddock are landed at Fraserburgh. Picture: PA
Cod and haddock are landed at Fraserburgh. Picture: PA

The family-run Buchan company of G&J Jack has been a major employer in Fraserburgh for more than half a century. But the company is to close its doors before the end of the year, blaming restrictions on fish landings and a general downturn in the local fishing industry for the decision to shut its Harbour Road processing plant.

The company’s 55-strong workforce of filleters, labourers, drivers and office staff are facing redundancy.

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Company director Ian Jack said: “For four generations, G&J Jack has been operating as one of Scotland’s most respected and successful fish processing companies, delivering high-quality fish to customers throughout Europe.

“The decline in the industry has been significant over the last two decades, with the white fish sector in which G&J Jack operates being affected by reduced fish stocks and quota availability.”

He added: “Attempts to sell the business as a going concern have not proved successful.”

Stewart Stevenson, the SNP MSP for Banffshire and the Buchan Coast, described the closure as a major blow for Fraserburgh. He said: “It is very disappointing to hear that a long-established company like Jacks is being forced to take these measures.

“My thoughts are with the staff and their families at this very difficult time. I will be making sure that the government provides them with all the assistance they need to find new employment. For a town like Fraserburgh, this is a very substantial blow. It is a well-known business and it will be sorely missed.”

Local MP Eilidh Whiteford said: “This is terrible news for the workforce to receive just before Christmas. I am ready to lend any assistance that I can to support them. I would hope that discussions over the next few days could open up new possibilities.”