95 jobs to go at Desoutter

Parent group Atlas Copco announced today (12 June) that it intends to transfer its manufacturing operations in Hemel Hempstead to other manufacturing units within the Group and to sub-suppliers. The move, it said, is “part of a process to strengthen the long-term cost competitiveness of the business area”. Atlas Copco said the reorganization will lead to the closure of the Hemel Hempstead factory, resulting in redundancies for approximately 95 employees by 31 December. Mats Rahmström, business area president of Atlas Copco Industrial Technique said: “Focusing our manufacturing operations to fewer locations will give us increased efficiency of production and administration. This is an important step to be able to operate in the market with a greater competitive edge, to the benefit of our customers.” He added that the company was entering into consultation with employees and would assist those affected in achieving alternative employment either within or outside the Atlas Copco Group. Some job opportunities would also be available to affected staff within CP Desoutter and the wider Atlas Copco operations in the UK and Europe. The changes would not have any effect on the marketing, sales and service of CP Desoutter products, a statement said. Atlas Copco employs around 800 people in the UK.