Roberts Bakery has announced plans to restructure its operations at its Northwich site, following significant challenges in the bread market and ongoing economic pressures.
Since the devastating fire at the Northwich bread plant in June 2023, where two thirds of the bread production capacity was lost for over a year, Roberts has worked extensively to rebuild production.
However, despite best efforts, bread volumes have not rebounded as anticipated, with many customers having secured alternative supply contracts during the recovery period.
The bakery sector has faced increased competition and overcapacity, leading to downward pricing pressures and reduced demand for standard white bread.
In response, Roberts Bakery has conducted a comprehensive review of its product portfolio, operational footprint, and long-term business strategy to ensure sustainability and continued excellence in bread production.
As part of this strategy, the company has made the difficult decision to restructure operational and support functions at its Northwich site.
It is with great regret, that this is likely to result in a workforce reduction of approximately 225 to 250 roles across various departments.
A formal consultation period of at least 45 days will begin shortly, with the company ensuring a respectful and transparent approach throughout the process.
Affected employees will be fully supported with individual meetings, practical assistance, and consideration of voluntary redundancy where feasible.
Employees at the company’s other sites in Ilkeston, Derbyshire and Winsford will be unaffected by these changes.
Mike Roberts commented: “We have faced unprecedented challenges in the last 24 months with longer term implications for our business than we anticipated. We do not take decisions to restructure lightly, we know its impact on our people, but at the same time we must ensure we are fit for purpose going forward.
He continued: “We are absolutely committed to providing high-quality bread to customers across the region and maintaining the values that have defined our reputation for generations.
“We must continue to adapt to the turbulent market conditions, prioritising financial sustainability and operational efficiency to safeguard the future.”
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Joseph Clarke
Editor, International Bakery
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Email: editor@in-bakery.com
