Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Metal manufacturing firm Simclar Group has closed two factories in Ayrshire with the loss of 420 jobs. The factories were in Irvine and Kilwinning, and were closed without warning. The firm said it had been unable to remain competitive due to pressure from low cost economies and falling orders.
Community, a union representing Simclar workers, said a loyal workforce had been treated callously. Scottish regional secretary Willie Paterson said workers in Kilwinning had turned up to find the factory gates padlocked. He said those in Irvine were escorted to the canteen, told that they were being made redundant and then escorted off the premises.
Mr Paterson said: 'In this day and age there is absolutely no excuse for treating a high-skilled, highly-motivated and loyal workforce so callously.'
A Simclar spokesman said: 'The current market conditions have made the continued operation of Simclar (Ayrshire) impossible.'
'Simclar has made every attempt to restructure and save the business but it would not be in the best interests of the group as a whole to continue to do so in the long-term.'
'The company will work with the local enterprise and employment agencies to offer information and support to those affected by this closure in their search for new employment.'
Allan Wilson, deputy minister for enterprise, said: 'This is devastating news for those who will lose their jobs and their families.'
'Full and immediate support will now be made available.'
'This will offer a wide range of support, advice and assistance to those Simclar employees made redundant and not quickly finding alternative employment.'
Eurofound (2006), Simclar electronics, Closure in United Kingdom, factsheet number 64505, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/64505.