Inveresk to close label factory

PAPERMAKER Inveresk is planning to close its loss-making label paper business in Scotland, which employs 152 staff. The company said it had started talks with employee representatives at the operations, in Westfield Mill, near Bathgate.

The business, which makes coated paper for labels, has been the weakest division in the group, and had been loss-making for three years, Inveresk said.

Ken Minton, executive chairman said: 'The intention to disengage from the labels business together with the closure of the Westfield site, comes after extensive efforts over many months to secure the long-term viability of this part of the Inveresk group. This has not proven possible and the group must concentrate on developing and improving its remaining businesses, all of which are viable and performing satisfactorily. Following the closure of Westfield, the prospects for the group are greatly enhanced'