Müller Wiseman Dairies confirms decision to close Keith and Whitburn depots

Fresh milk processor Müller Wiseman Dairies has confirmed that it is to wind down its depot operations at Keith and Whitburn, with closure of the sites expected before the end of the year.

The decision, prompted by significant reductions in the number of delivery runs from each site, affects 23 posts at Keith and 116 posts at Whitburn and follows a strategic review and formal 45 day consultation process.

Distribution will gradually be transferred to depots in Aberdeen and Cambuslang, where at least 81 new posts will be created (a minimum of 13 posts in Aberdeen and 68 at Cambuslang).

Where opportunities exist, Müller Wiseman Dairies will ensure that posts are offered to colleagues from Keith and Whitburn who wish to transfer, with initial incentives put in place to compensate for extra travel to work costs.   

Carl Ravenhall, Managing Director at Müller Wiseman Dairies said:

“Employees, management and unions worked extremely hard to find ways of addressing the challenges facing these depots, but we have been unable to establish an economic basis for continuing to distribute milk from Keith or Whitburn.

“We very much regret the impact that this decision will have on these areas but we have to adapt to changes in the way that fresh milk is being distributed.  It is our hope that colleagues based at Keith and Whitburn will consider taking up positions which will be created in Aberdeen and Cambuslang.”

Ends…  31 July 2013