267 jobs at risk after plans to close Aspatria Sealy factory announced

267 jobs are at risk in Cumbria after plans were put forward to close the Sealy bed factory in Aspatria.

Owners Silentnight Group blame a "challenging" market, which has affected the plant's profitability.

It says the COVID-19 pandemic has made the situation worse. The firm has gone into consultation.

A statement released by the company said: "Following an in-depth review of the business, we are regrettably proposing the closure of our Aspatria facility, where Sealy products are made under license.

The UK bed market has been challenging for a number of years and the profitability of the Aspatria site has progressively declined.

The impact of the current Coronavirus pandemic, coupled with uncertainties regarding some of the site’s major customers, has substantially exacerbated this situation.

As a result, the Company will be entering into a consultation period with employee and trade union representatives of the staff employed at the site. Our priority now is to support all employees affected.”

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