Union demands talks over cutbacks

Union leaders want to start talks with a Lincolnshire food firm over plans to lay off hundreds of workers.

GMB spokesman Andy Fletcher said he did not accept claims from Icelandic firm Bakkavor that the economic recession has caused the cutbacks.

The firm said it will consult with workers over restructuring plans for sites in Kirton, Holbeach and Spalding.

It will not confirm exactly how many jobs will be lost, but it is understood it could be as many as 400.

Consultation period

Bakkavor employs 2,000 people at the three Lincolnshire sites, including Exotic Farm Produce in Kirton, Freshcook in Holbeach and Bakkavor Spalding.

It has begun a 90-day consultation period with staff.

Mr Fletcher said: "Bakkavor produces food and people eat even in time of economic recession. We do not accept whatsoever that there is a need to cut any jobs."

He added that none of the food production firms that he represented in Lincolnshire have reported any downturn in orders.

A company spokesperson said: "These are challenging times for the food industry and the group remains cautious about the worsening economic conditions on consumer expenditure on top of ongoing pressures from inflationary costs."