Crisis-stricken British Steel has described operations on site as “business as usual” as the manufacturer prepares to start its summer safety and maintenance programme.
The strategic annual overhaul is about to kick in across the sites in the 海角视频 and Europe, with improvements to the safety and efficiency of the steel-making process at the fore.
With the business having been in compulsory liquidation for more than a month after debts of £880-million were revealed, it has issued the statement, reassurance that it is not the start of any wind-down.
READ MORE: {}
The Official Receiver is heading up the complex task of attempting to find a buyer of British Steel as a going concern, with speculation that a June 30 deadline for tabling offers is in place.
Neither the company or the Official Receiver have confirmed this, however, and with indemnity provided by the government and raw materials in place for at least the next quarter, the programme begins at works in Scunthorpe, Skinningrove and Lackenby.
British Steel chief executive Gerald Reichmann said: “We strive hard throughout the year to maintain our operations but have always conducted our major improvement and maintenance activities during the summer months. It means we’ll soon be starting our 2019 programme which will see a planned reduction in some areas of production for a short period of time. This is entirely normal and will ensure we continue to improve our high-quality products and work in a safe and effective way.
“Our employees continue to deliver world-class products and services and it’s very much business as usual at British Steel.”
The insolvency followed a High Court hearing on May 22, with 5,000 jobs in jeopardy should a rescue deal not be brokered. There are upwards of 20,000 also at risk in the supply chain.
Most Read
It has been reported that around 12 firms have made tentative approaches, meaning the speculated deadline could be extended in order to draft a takeover plan.
Liberty Group, India’s JSW, China’s Hesteel and an unidentified steel firm from Turkey have all been linked so far, with others keen to pounce should a single new owner not come forward.
Roman Abramovich’s Evraz, French-owned Systra and even Greybull - the company removed from day-to-day control at the High Court – are all rumoured to be eyeing up elements.
The last statement made by the Official Receiver came a fortnight ago. It said: “We are continuing to work with interested parties to explore how to preserve the company as a going concern.
“The company is continuing to trade and supply its customers who are showing good support for its products.”