Young’s Seafood Ltd. on Thursday announced that production at the Cromer Crab Co. facility will be transferred to the company’s Grimsby facilities, which will “likely” result in the closure of the site and the loss of the remaining 109 jobs there by August.
Crab will, however, continue to be processed at the site.
The decision comes after a difficult eight-month consultation. The company attributed the closure to “short-term and long-term costs, financial sustainability, quality and technical requirements and the manufacturing capabilities of the site.”
“We have looked long and hard at this, and I’d like to stress that this move does not, in any way, reflect on the committed and experienced team in Cromer. Their passion and pride in Cromer crab is commendable and the work they do has always been outstanding,” said Young’s COO Pete Ward. “Shellfish processing remains important to our company, as we consolidate shellfish processing in Grimsby. Our priority is to continue to fulfil’ customer contracts, alongside ensuring that the employees affected by this announcement get the support they need by working closely with them, local agencies and other key stakeholders.”
Young’s said it remains committed to buying from local fishermen while processing Cromer crab locally.
Added Ward: “We are today confirming that we will ensure that the Cromer Crab brand stays in its rightful home in Cromer, by working with local stakeholders on how we can give the Cromer community the right to use this brand name into the future.”
Just two days ago, Young’s announced that production at the former Cumbrian Seafoods sites in Seaham and Whitehaven will be moved to the company’s existing facilities, which will “likely” result in the closure of the two sites.
“Today’s announcement on our footprint consolidation is about achieving the most robust and sustainable manufacturing operating model for the long-term,” said Young’s CEO Leendert den Hollander. “We have made some tough choices about our manufacturing operations, as we have adjusted to the new reality in the macroeconomic environment and to achieve our long-term objectives. Whilst we recognize that the general economic environment remains challenging, we’re confident that we’re taking the necessary steps to put us on the right track for the future.”
