Thai Union Frozen Products on Sunday clarified that damage from a fire at its Samutsakorn processing plant has affected only part of its shrimp production.
The fire broke out near the plant’s packing section but was quickly brought under control, according to the company. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, other sections of the plant, including tuna, sardines and cephalopods, are in operating condition. The company did not say what caused the fire.
As a result of the incident, 66 employees were admitted to local hospitals for treatment, mostly due to smoke inhalation and minor injuries sustained during dispersion. There were no severe injuries and no casualties.
The affected processing plant generated sales of USD 233 million in 2011, accounting for 7 percent of Thai Union’s consolidated sales, with a daily processing capacity up to 120 metric tons and 2,100 employees.
The company has already contacted its customers overseas to tell them of the fire and that it will not affect shipments. Currently, shrimp exporting is in a seasonal lull, when the plant produces only 60 percent of its capacity. Additionally, the company plans on moving its shrimp production line to another plant in Songkhla to ensure that production continues.
