One of the UK's leading fruit importers is planning a major restructuring of its business that will see the company remove around one-third of its 300-strong workforce.
SH Pratt, which handles imported bananas, pineapples and other tropical fruit at its premises in Luton, confirmed it had entered a 45-day consultation period on 8 October, a move apparently aimed at ensuring the impact on its commercial activities would be kept to a minimum.
The decision to restructure comes as a result of 'changing market conditions', the group said, a reference to recent dramatic shifts in the UK and European banana import business that have seen major retail companies look to purchase more and more fruit direct from source, leaving many importers to handle only ripening and logistics.
Sue Hackett, regional officer of trade union GMB, described the announcement as 'terrible news' for the employees concerned and for the local economy: 'GMB will seek talks with Pratt to fully understand whether it is a big retailer which is driving this restructuring. We will do everything we can to minimise the job losses.'
SH Pratt operations director David Bateman commented: 'Today's very unfortunate news is no reflection on our employees' excellent work over many years. We're deeply sorry about the effect this will have upon some of our employees and we will do everything possible to support all of our people during this difficult time.'
However, he added that the company's restructured business model would continue to offer strong potential for growth in the coming years. 'Following the completion of this restructure, our long-term business prospects remain strong. We will continue to be one of Luton's leading employers for many years to come.'
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