Saputo Faces Backlash Over Proposed Kirkby Malzeard Plant Closure (UDT)
The Kirkby Malzeard plant, known for blending and packing operations, is slated for closure by July, pending the outcome of a consultation process with employees. Saputo plans to relocate production to its modernized facility in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, following significant investments in upgrading the site. While the company emphasizes efficiency gains and cost reductions, the announcement has ignited local concerns over the loss of heritage, jobs, and community stability.
A Legacy at Stake
The closure of the Kirkby Malzeard plant would mark the end of an era for the local community, which has been intertwined with dairy production for generations. The facility, acquired by Saputo in 2021 as part of its £23 million purchase of Wensleydale Dairy Products, has played a central role in North Yorkshire’s cheese-making tradition.
“This creamery has been a cornerstone of our community for decades,” said a spokesperson for the North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. “The proposed closure would not only disrupt lives but also erode a significant part of our regional identity.”
Saputo’s Global Streamlining Strategy
Saputo’s move in Kirkby Malzeard is the latest in a series of closures under its global restructuring plan. The company has already announced shutdowns in Australia, including the historic King Island Dairy set to close by mid-2025, and multiple facilities in the United States, affecting locations in Wisconsin and South Dakota.
In the UK, this proposal follows the 2023 closure of Saputo’s Frome facility in Somerset, which led to 170 redundancies. The company argues that these measures are essential for long-term viability, stating they enable Saputo to “manufacture products of the highest quality while achieving operational efficiencies.”
Commitment to Hawes and Nuneaton
Despite the proposed closure, Saputo has reiterated its commitment to another key North Yorkshire site, the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes. The facility, along with its visitor center, will continue operations, preserving a critical link to the region’s cheese-making legacy.
The Nuneaton plant, described by the company as “state-of-the-art,” will absorb much of the work currently carried out in Kirkby Malzeard. New roles will reportedly be created in Warwickshire, though it remains unclear how many affected employees will be offered relocation opportunities.
Community and Political Reactions
The announcement has sparked a wave of concern among local officials, unions, and community leaders, who have called on Saputo to reconsider its decision or ensure robust support for displaced workers.
“Our priority is to ensure that employees are treated fairly during this difficult time,” said a representative for Unite the Union. “We urge Saputo to provide meaningful assistance to those facing redundancy, including retraining and relocation packages.”
Local MP Julian Smith has also weighed in, stating he will seek discussions with Saputo to explore potential alternatives or mitigate the impact on the community.
A Pivotal Moment for North Yorkshire
For Kirkby Malzeard, the proposed closure is more than a corporate decision—it represents a turning point for a community deeply tied to its dairy heritage. As Saputo begins consultations, the focus will be on how the company balances its global strategy with its local responsibilities.
The outcome of this process will not only shape the future of Kirkby Malzeard but also set a precedent for how multinational corporations navigate the delicate intersection of efficiency, heritage, and community impact.
