Proposed Luton factory closure would see almost 300 people lose their jobs

A full closure is expected by the end of 2024

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The proposed closure of a Luton factory, which has been manufacturing in the town for 110 years, would see around 300 people lose their jobs.

SKF announced the proposed closure of the Luton factory, which produces spherical roller bearings. Manufacturing at the site in Luton would be ramped down, with a full closure anticipated by the end of 2024. Production is proposed to be moved to SKF's factory in Poznan, Poland.

Aldo Cedrone, Acting President, Industrial Region Europe Middle East and Africa, said: "Although it is a difficult decision to make, this is an important step in securing our long-term competitiveness on the European markets. To ensure that our spherical roller bearing production stays competitive, investments are needed in new machinery and our evaluation showed Poznan is the optimum site for this investment. Our immediate focus is to support our colleagues in Luton."

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The Luton factory currently employs approximately 300 people. The proposed activities are subject to consultation with employees and union representatives. SKF has expressed it's commitment to engaging with employees and their representatives throughout the consultation process.

Michael Crean, Managing Director for SKF (U.K.) Limited said: "Following the news of this proposal, it is an extremely sad day for the SKF team, after more than 110 years of proud manufacturing by SKF at the Luton site. I would like to express my personal appreciation for the commitment and dedication our employees have shown. They can feel rightly proud of the achievements they have made.

"I want to stress that the UK management team will strive to offer the right level of support to all employees. Looking to the next weeks, we will enter a formal consultation period to hear the views of our employees, their elected representatives and the union and explore any alternatives."

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