Kellogg’s parent company, Kellanova, has announced plans to shut down its Trafford Park factory within the next three years, potentially resulting in the loss of 360 jobs. The decision is attributed to the age of the facility, which is nearly 90 years old, and the significant amount of unused space within its buildings.
Despite the closure proposal, Kellanova assures that Greater Manchester will remain its home, with a total of 520 jobs within the region. Chris Silcock, UK managing director of Kellanova, emphasized that the proposal is unrelated to the dedication of the factory’s workforce over the generations. He acknowledged the historic significance of the site but pointed out its outdated layout and inefficient use of space compared to modern industrial standards.
Silcock stated, “The site opened in 1938 and is structured in a way that is simply not in line with contemporary factory design and technology. Additionally, the maintenance investment required in the coming years is not feasible given the underutilization of the space.”
In light of the difficult news, Kellanova is committed to supporting its employees during the transition process. Silcock assured that the company will engage in discussions with employees and representatives to ensure proper support and assistance in the event of the proposed closure.
The closure of the Trafford Park factory represents a strategic decision by Kellanova to optimize operations and remain agile in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. By addressing the facility’s limitations, the company aims to secure its long-term sustainability and growth in the region.
