Sunseeker staff facing 'temporary lay-off' following operational issues affecting production

A luxury yacht manufacturer based in Dorset has confirmed around 100 staff have been 'temporarily laid off' as it struggles to deal with operational issues.

Sunseeker International in Poole said that the employees were placed on a lay-off on 2 and 3 January, but are expected to return to work by 27 January.

The company said it is working hard to rectify the issues which have resulted in the action, and that those staff affected will receive half of their normal hourly rate during the break.

In a statement, a spokesperson said: "Following our statement last week, we wanted to give an update on operational issues which have delayed our production schedule in December and regrettably, resulted in circa 100 of our 2150 employees being placed on a temporary lay-off on 2 nd & 3 rd January 2025, with the option to take this as paid holiday.

"We are working hard to rectify the operational issues, and we can now confirm that the 100 staff will return by Monday 27th January.

"During the temporary lay-off period, each employee will receive 50% of their normal basic hourly rate in an effort to minimise any personal difficulties during this time.

"We are speaking to affected employees to explain the circumstances. It's important to state that no permanent employee has lost their job.

"We reiterate how important all our staff, their knowledge, skills and craftsmanship are to us.

"We appreciate their loyalty and patience at this time."

It comes two weeks after the Unite Union claimed that 250 workers with less than two years' service at the firm were to lose their jobs.

The union vowed to work to get the decision reversed

In November Sunseeker was sold by its Chinese owners to two investment firms.

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