Approximately 115 jobs are at risk at a Grimsby fish processing plant as the Danish owners have confirmed its closure.
The former Iceland Seafood º£½ÇÊÓƵ site was acquired by Copenhagen-based Espersen in 2023, sparking hopes of a revival after the seafood plant's workers had faced an uncertain future. At that time, the company's largest market was with º£½ÇÊÓƵ retailers, and having previously depended on imports from its European operations, the team expressed optimism about processing closer to the consumer.
Despite serving the retail and food service sectors, it experienced challenging times during the pandemic as Covid measures resulted in the closures of restaurants and chip shops. However, the easing of restrictions was expected to stimulate a surge in trading.
In May it was revealed that Espersen was considering closing the Grimsby plant, issuing a statement in which it stated it was operating at a loss.
Now, following a strategic review, the firm has confirmed plans to cease operations, impacting 115 employees. This decision will be a significant setback for the town and the local seafood industry, reports .
After announcing the planned closure to staff, the company said it is collaborating with affected employees and aims to stop fish processing in Grimsby in November.
Tino Bendix, CEO of Espersen, has expressed his sentiments on the consultation outcome: "The outcome of the consultation process is not the one we had hoped for, but it reflects the business reality we must address. We are grateful for the open and constructive approach from our º£½ÇÊÓƵ team, and we will now turn our full attention to supporting them and ensuring a smooth and responsible transition."
He further acknowledged the toll on the workforce: "We are fully aware of the impact this decision has on our colleagues and their families, and we are deeply grateful for their contribution to Espersen and dedication in this process. We are committed to handling the closure with transparency, care, and respect."
Espersen has confirmed its commitment to its clients, stating: "We are fully committed to honouring all customer obligations" and clarifying that it intends to "continue to deliver from Grimsby under existing agreements unless mutually agreed transitions are arranged earlier with the individual customers. The target is to cease production middle of November 2025".
Additionally, the company has detailed the support measures for the 115 employees affected by the closure in Grimsby, including the establishment of a dedicated HR and management team to provide outplacement assistance, one-on-one counselling, and guidance on future opportunities.
