Appliance Manufacturer Confirms Yate Factory Closure, Over 140 Jobs Affected

Beko Europe, an appliance firm and owner of a tumble dryer factory, has confirmed the facility’s closure, leading to the loss of at least 142 jobs. Staff were informed last month that the Hotpoint UK factory in Yate, near Bristol, is scheduled to cease operations on December 31. This decision signifies the end of more than a century of manufacturing activities at the Station Road site. A spokesperson for Beko Europe stated that all affected employees have been notified and expressed gratitude “for their continued efforts.” Employees at the company had received warnings of potential job losses when the consultation process commenced in July. The factory is responsible for producing tumble dryers for the UK and Ireland markets. In a statement, a spokesperson from South Gloucestershire Council affirmed that it is “actively supporting the current workforce.” The council spokesperson elaborated that they are collaborating with a Yate Development Worker to provide employment coaching and support for employees. They are also exploring opportunities to offer skills training to the workforce to aid their future employment prospects. The factory is situated on the former site of the Parnall aircraft factory, where over 50 individuals were killed during two air raids in 1941. Manufacturing at this location dates back approximately 107 years. Claire Young, Liberal Democrat MP for Thornbury and Yate, described it as a “very sad day to see this factory close.” She explained, “This site has had a very long history as a manufacturing site in Yate, during the war it was producing aeroplanes and was the subject of some bombings.” Ms. Young further noted that the closure is also expected to impact suppliers associated with the site. The company initiated consultations regarding the plant’s closure following a noticeable decline in profits. Teresa Arbuckle, Beko’s regional managing director, had previously informed the BBC that demand for the appliances produced there has “rapidly decreased as consumers purchase more advanced and energy efficient models.” In an official statement, a Beko Europe spokesperson said: “The consultation process announced on 5 July has now been completed and Beko Europe has confirmed the closure of the Hotpoint UK Appliances site at Yate, United Kingdom, which will close on 31st December 2024. All those affected have been notified. We are continuing to provide support to all of our employees and are grateful for their continued efforts and engagement throughout. We have also notified the site’s MP and local councillors of the news.” South Gloucestershire Council has indicated that it has begun the process of considering options for the future use of the existing site and its facilities. A spokesperson added, “Looking forward, we want to ensure that however the land is used in the future, is for the benefit of the whole community.” The spokesperson further stated, “We will engage closely with local residents, businesses and other stakeholders to ensure the site plays an important role in the future of the town.”