Glen Dimplex Home Appliances has announced plans to relocate production of its Belling and Stoves cooking appliances and Lec Medical refrigeration products, with the proposed relocation meaning the closure of its Whiston factory. A spokersperson for the company said if the plans were implemented, "regrettably this would lead to some redundances across affected functions and a consultation process will take place".
The spokesperson said: “The Belling and Stoves brands have almost two centuries of heritage between them. We are proud to be their custodians and have always treated them with the utmost respect. In order to continue to strengthen and develop these much-loved brands, we are proposing to make changes to our operations and to partner with leading international manufacturers to access latest technologies and expand our comprehensive, high quality and innovative product range. Regrettably, if implemented this proposal will lead to the eventual closure of our manufacturing facility in Prescot."
They continued: “In recent years we have made progress in streamlining our operations and driving cost efficiencies, and our focus continues to be building and protecting the brands for the long term, and securing a healthy, sustainable future for the business."
The company says it intends to retain a 'strong, UK-based engineering and design capability', and improve customer service to support both retailers and the end consumer. It intends to offer wider geographical coverage, enhanced consumer engagement and a stronger aftersales service. In addition, it says the proposals will allow it to produce 'innovative, built-to-last appliances at an accessible price point', update and improve its product range, and offer retailers 'better promotional support and marketing investment'.
“With the introduction of the measures outlined we believe our organisation will be simplified significantly, enabling us to focus on growth and innovation," added the spokesperson. “Our immediate priority and focus is our duty of care to colleagues whose roles cannot be moved to other UK businesses within the Group and we will be doing everything we can to support them during this time.”
