Dr Martens moves to China

R Griggs Group, which makes the iconic boots at factories in Northamptonshire, Leicestershire and Somerset, made the announcement on Thursday.

Union leaders criticised the plans saying they had "shocked and devastated" the workforce.

A spokesman for the company said the decision was made because it was far cheaper to produce footwear in China.

He said the company would start a 90-day consultation process with its 1,068 employees.

It plans to cease all production in the UK, but will continue to employ a number of office and design staff.

David Suddens, R Griggs group managing director, said: "We regret very much the loss of jobs resulting from these proposed closures but we will make every effort to help staff find alternative employment.

"We will also work closely with the local authorities and other agencies.

"It is an especially difficult announcement to make given all the effort that our staff have put in over the past few years.

'Positive direction'

"Dr Martens will remain a brand true to its heritage and deliver footwear of the highest quality.

"The offshore strategy is the first step in moving the company and the brand forward in a positive direction."

John Tully, Northamptonshire district secretary for footwear union KFAT, said: "Workers were shocked by the announcement.

"This is devastating news for them and the footwear industry."

He said that as well as affecting about 700 workers in Northampshire, the decision will have a knock-on effect on local suppliers to R Griggs.

Paul Gates, general secretary of KFAT, said: "It may be cheaper in China, but this is an issue of added value and quality.

"It does not matter if the boots are cheap if nobody is going to buy them (because of their poorer quality)."