The announcement that ABP plans to cease operations at its Linden Foods retail packing facility in Dungannon, County Tyrone, has sent shockwaves through the local community. The move puts more than 300 jobs at risk, leaving workers and their families facing an uncertain future.
Linden Foods, which is owned by ABP, processes and manufactures beef, lamb, pork, and chicken for branded and own-label products. However, the company has cited the “challenging and changing UK and global marketplace for beef and lamb” as the reason behind the decision to streamline its operations.
In a statement, a spokesperson for ABP said it was a “very difficult step” but a necessary one to “achieve operational efficiencies, maintain our competitiveness and strengthen our business for the long term.” The company has now entered into a formal consultation process with the 338 employees affected.
While ABP has stated that it will try to “minimise the impact on those who are affected,” including through potential redeployment, the news has been met with deep concern from local political representatives.
Sinn Féin MLA Colm Gildernew described the announcement as a “shock to the workers” and urged the company to do “all it can to retain as many jobs as possible.” He also called for support to be provided to those facing redundancy, including through retraining and reskilling opportunities.
Similarly, DUP MLA Deborah Erskine expressed her “deep concern” over the loss of “skilled workers” and the impact on the local economy and the agri-food industry. Ulster Unionist Party MLA Diana Armstrong described the news as “extremely bad” and warned of the “enormous uncertainty” facing the affected families.
The job losses at Linden Foods are set to have a significant impact on the Dungannon and wider Tyrone area, with the company being a major employer in the region. As the consultation process continues, all eyes will be on ABP to see how it can minimise the disruption and support its loyal workforce during this challenging time.
