Jobs at risk as major tissue company looks to relocate operations - sites in Blackburn & Leyland affected
A major tissue manufacturer with three sites in Lancashire has begun consultations with employees after revealing plans to consolidate its operations.
Navigator Tissue UK - which bought Blackburn-based Accrol for £130m last year - has confirmed plans to build a larger and more modern facility in Leicester.
Bosses plan on relocating their existing Leicester operations to the new nearby site as well as splitting the rolls manufacturing division - currently based across two sites in Blackburn - between the new site and their site in Lancashire Business Park, Leyland.
Consultation has begun with employees at the existing Leicester and Blackburn sites. The company said it aims to preserve as many roles as possible.
Simon Nelson, operations director at Navigator Tissue UK, said: "This is a significant step forward for our operations in Leicester. Relocating to a larger, and more modern facility allows us to strengthen our manufacturing base, create greater resilience, and invest in the long-term future of our Midlands capabilities.”
He added: “We are committed to supporting our colleagues and working closely with them through the consultation process, and remain fully focused on maintaining continuity for our customers and partners throughout this transition."
Navigator Tissue UK is part of The Navigator Company, a global pulp and paper manufacturer. Listed in Portugal, the group reported revenues of €2.088bn in its most recent financial year.
Accrol Papers was established in 1993, originating in Accrington before relocating to Blackburn in 1996 and to its present location in Roman Road in 2004 with a purpose built 65,000 sq ft factory.