Tulip site review puts 642 jobs at risk

The closure is part of its “on-going operational footprint optimisation review”​ and would see operations moved to other facilities in the UK.

A Tulip spokesperson confirmed the business is entering into collective consultation with employee representatives over the future of its fresh pork manufacturing site in Tipton.

In a statement, it said: “As part of its on-going operational footprint optimisation review and business recovery plan, the business has proposed to transfer operations from the West Midlands site to alternative sites within its UK network. This will place 642 roles at Tipton at risk of redundancy.​

“Tipton has a long history and is well established in the local area with many long-serving employees, however, the site itself requires significant investment and redevelopment to cater for future requirements, while its location places severe restrictions on any further development.”​

 The Tulip spokesperson added that it hoped to keep as many of the team at the site as possible. “The business is keen to retain the experience and skills of the Tipton team where possible. Transfer opportunities to alternative Tulip sites will be explored thoroughly if the closure is confirmed and employees will be presented with a number of options as part of the consultation process.”​

Workers' union Unite's regional officer Rick Coyle said: “This is devastating for our members. We will be considering the serious implications of today’s announcement very closely.​

“I will be seeking urgent talks with the management to see what can be done to save this site and also what redeployment opportunities there may be. I will be meeting our shop stewards for detailed discussions on Friday (6 March).​

“Unite’s top priority will be the welfare of our members and their families at this difficult time – we will be giving them maximum support in the days and weeks ahead.”​

Tulip had previously invested more than £1m in the Tipton site with the introduction of a new mincing line​.

Earlier this year, the business announced redundancies at its Bodmin site in Cornwall.