Opposition to the closure of McVitie's Tollcross

Pladis, the parent company of the biscuit brand McVitie's, today announced that it has started a consultation process on the closure of its factory in Tollcross in the East end of Glasgow.

The proposal, subject to consultation with the factory’s 468 employees, would see production moved from Tollcross to other Pladis sites in the UK and the factory ceasing operations in the second half of 2022.

Today's news comes as a total body blow to our community.  Above all, it's a massive kick in the teeth to the loyal workforce at Tollcross - many of whom have worked there for decades.

Since 2017, I've been engaging with Pladis about the challenges they face as a business and I was genuinely encouraged to learn that things had started to turn a corner.  Therefore, news of proposed closure comes as something of a bolt out of the blue.

My sole focus right now is on engaging with Pladis, local and national Government, as well as the trade unions. Earlier today, I spoke with the Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor Susan Aitken, and I’m assured that our local authority is fully engaged. First thing in the morning, I have meetings arranged with the Scottish Government’s Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills, Jamie Hepburn MSP as well as with representatives from trade union GMB.

This is a deeply worrying time for everyone associated with the factory at Tollcross and no stone must be left unturned as we fight to protect local jobs.