Workers at Welsh manufacturing firm Coppice Alupack Ltd fear their jobs could be at risk after the company announced a potential restructuring plan. Employees say they attended meetings on Monday morning where they were told a period of consultation would take place.
The company operates two main manufacturing sites in South Wales. Its Blackmill site, near Bridgend, is the company’s long-established base and specialises in aluminium and foil packaging for the food manufacturing and baking sectors. Its Clydach Vale site, near Tonypandy, operates as part of the Coppice Sirane business and focuses on specialist packaging, including absorbent and flexible products.
Proposed change of use at Clydach Vale
The Clydach Vale site was brought back into manufacturing use with support from the Welsh Government, creating dozens of jobs. If the proposed restructure is introduced, it would end manufacturing at the Clydach Vale site, with production moved to Blackmill. The Clydach Vale facility would instead be used for distribution.
Together, the two sites employ around 300 people, according to Companies House.
Consultation underway
Coppice Alupack Ltd chief executive Derek Nixon said: "We are currently entering a period of consultation with our teams at our Tonypandy facility, as we discuss a change of use for this facility. At this time, no decisions have been taken on any outcome from this consultation. Our priority remains to work with the affected teams during this consultation."
Chris Bryant, the MP for Rhondda and Ogmore, said: "I know this uncertainty will be worrying news for the workforce and their families in Tonypandy. The company has said that it is consulting with staff and that no decisions have yet been made. I hope the consultation will give workers a full opportunity to understand the proposals and have their views heard."
Bryant added: "My immediate concern is for the employees, their families and the wider community affected by this news. I will continue to follow the situation closely and, if any decisions are taken that affect jobs locally, I will do everything I can to support the workforce and the wider community."
