Weather
Forbo jobs shock
From the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, first published Thursday 30th Nov 1995.
BOSSES are wielding the axe at wallcoverings giant Forbo-Lancaster where more than 60 jobs are to be slashed in the New Year.
And managing director Mike Ferguson admitted some compulsory redundancies would have to be made despite job transfers and early retirement.
The shock decision to cut 62 jobs was announced to the firm's 527-strong workforce earlier this week, but Forbo's chiefs promised no action would be taken until after Christmas.
Mr Ferguson said: "Obviously this decision was not made lightly or quickly, but we have recognised for some time the need to control costs to remain competitive.
"We tried to see if there was any way to avoid such an action, but it was impossible.
"Our long term viability depends on the company remaining internationally competitive. The redundancies will reduce costs and strengthen the business."
The job losses are set to affect employees right across the board with cut backs among craftsmen, factory shop floor workers and administration staff.
Counselling will be provided and the company will start a job search programme.
Last year Forbo-Lancaster celebrated its 150th anniversary. They made investments of more than £3 million in the company and intend to invest substantial amounts in 1996.
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Local Information
Enter your postcode, town or place name
