Arla Criticized by GMB for Avoiding Meeting Over North Yorkshire Plant Closure

Dairy co-operative Arla has been criticized by the GMB Union for "swerving" a crucial meeting over the proposed closure of its North Yorkshire plant. The GMB Union met with Arla for the first formal consultation on plans to move production from Settle to Lockerbie, Scotland, threatening 130 jobs.

The union reported that key figures from Arla were absent, leaving critical questions unanswered regarding GMB's alternative business plan.

With Arla's new investment proposal in Lockerbie, unveiled last month, the decision to close the Settle site triggered a call for "collective consultation." GMB has urged Arla's decision-makers to "engage properly with the process," emphasizing the profound impact on livelihoods.

Deanne Ferguson, GMB's regional organizer, said Arla appears indifferent, despite the significant stakes for the community. GMB is committed to collaborating with stakeholders to keep the site open and demands Arla show equal commitment for meaningful negotiations.