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Saputo Dairy UK has proposed closing its Kirkby Malzeard, North Yorkshire, cheese packing facility and relocating the majority of its operations to Nuneaton, Warwickshire. This decision follows a recent major investment at the Nuneaton site.

If implemented, the proposal would lead to the closure of the Kirkby Malzeard facility, putting approximately 80 jobs at risk. Saputo Dairy UK has stated that employee consultations will commence shortly, emphasising that no final decisions have yet been made.

The company reassured stakeholders that cheese production at the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes will continue unaffected. Both the creamery and its associated visitor centre will remain operational, and the proposed changes will not impact local supplying farms.

SDUK’s rationale for the relocation centers around the pursuit of long-term efficiencies and cost reductions. A spokesperson highlighted the need for the company to adapt to market demands while maintaining product quality.

“Proposals that could affect employees are never taken lightly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are committed to supporting all employees who may be impacted by these changes.”

The announcement has drawn concern from local politicians, including Julian Smith, MP for Skipton and Ripon, who expressed that the closure would not only affect workers but also the broader community and local economy.

Smith told the BBC that the historic significance of cheese production in Kirkby Malzeard, which has been a staple of the local economy since the early 20th century.

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