Hotpoint, a subsidiary of the newly-formed Beko Europe, has entered into consultation with its staff as it pursues the closer of its Yate facility, which is near Bristol, putting 150 jobs at risk.
The manufacturer has stated that “the facility has been operating at a significant loss for some time”, and that its products had become “less popular” with consumers who now favour more energy efficient appliances.
It also said that the UK was “likely” to adopt EU legislation that means new tumble dryers need to be produced using heat pump technology.
Regional Managing Director, Teresa Arbuckle, said: “We know this news will be difficult to hear for our employees, on-site contractors, and the whole community.
“The Yate site has a superb workforce, with real commitment and strong leadership, and we are grateful for their continued efforts during this challenging time.”
Unite Regional Officer, John Sweeney, said that the Union will be ensuring its members’ best interests are the priority and demanding that “Beko leaves no stone unturned in seeking alternatives to closure”.
Ian Moverley, UK communications and government relations at Beko, said the company was “selling less than a third of what it used to make five years ago.
“Unfortunately, the demand for our products being manufactured here has dropped significantly in recent years.”
The site first opened in 1917 as an aircraft repair centre and is currently a manufacturing facility for tumble dryers.
