Danish seafood company Espersen has decided to close its UK fish-processing facility in Grimsby, resulting in the loss of 115 jobs.
This final decision was confirmed on 8 July, following a comprehensive review and consultation process that commenced in May.
Espersen stated that after engaging in “thorough and respectful dialogue with employee representatives,” the company resolved to close the Grimsby site by mid-November this year.
Tino Bendix, who took over as CEO last year, remarked: “While we are exiting production in Grimsby, we remain a trusted partner to our UK customers, as we have been for decades prior to acquiring this plant.”
Espersen acquired the Grimsby facility during its purchase of the UK operations of Iceland Seafood International in 2023. However, the site has been operating at a loss.
Highlighting last year’s reported DKr57m ($8.6m) loss, Espersen noted that “the combination of lower group volumes, higher raw material costs, and the operating losses from the Grimsby production facility has significantly contributed to our negative profit before net financials.”
Due to the imminent closure, Espersen has assured customers that it remains “fully committed” to fulfilling all obligations from Grimsby under existing agreements unless mutually agreed transitions are arranged.
In light of this decision, a dedicated HR and management team will provide support to affected employees, including outplacement assistance, one-on-one counseling, and guidance on the next steps. “We are fully aware of the impact this decision has on our colleagues and their families,” Bendix stated. “We are deeply grateful for their contributions to Espersen and their dedication throughout this process.”
The Grimsby closure follows a similar decision in March when Espersen announced the closure of its Klaipėda plant in Lithuania, shifting production to Poland.
Espersen characterized this decision as a “strategic consolidation” of its European operations.
