R. Griggs to shut UK factories
R. Griggs Group said it would begin a 90-day consultation process at its plants in Northamptonshire, Leicestershire and Somerset, before moving production to two Chinese plants. The plan came under heavy fire from union leaders who said it had left the workforce ‘shocked and devastated’ and would likely result in further job losses among suppliers.
David Suddens, R Griggs’ group managing director, said: "We regret very much the loss of jobs resulting from these proposed closures, but we will make every effort to help staff find alternative employment. We will also work closely with the local authorities and other agencies.
"It is an especially difficult announcement to make given all the effort that our staff have put in over the past few years. Dr Martens will remain a brand true to its heritage and deliver footwear of the highest quality. This announcement will ensure the company has the necessary flexibility to enable it to compete in the global footwear market on design, quality, speed of delivery, range of styles and price. The offshore strategy is the first step in moving the company and the brand forward in a positive direction."
When R. Griggs closed its Wellingborough, Northants factory during the summer, it said it had been "left irritated" by reports in the UK press that it was to move its production offshore. "It’s not being moved anywhere," a spokesman said at the time. "It’s simply that we are having to reduce capacity, in line with current trading conditions."
