Vion workers expect deal to go through

Jan 2 2013

by Douglas Dickie, Rutherglen Reformer

The Vion factory in Cambuslang looks set to be saved. It is understood talks are ongoing between the Dutch-based food giant and private equity firm Endless over a management buy-out. Endless completed a deal for Vion’s pork division last month and it seems likely a similar rescue of the poultry division, including the Cambuslang plant, will take place in the newyear. Vion refused to comment on the situation this week, but it is thought Endless have already completed due-diligence in relation to the move. A Vion spokesperson said: “The position at the moment is that discussions with potential buyers of Vion’s poultry and red meat business units are continuing but at this stage no deals have been signed.” Story continues ADVERTISEMENT Scott Walker, Unite shop steward at the Cambuslang plant, remains cautiously optimistic that 350 jobs at the site can be saved. He said: “While we only know what has been in the press, it is clear the employer has been paving the way for a sale of Vion division by division. “The pork division has already gone to Endless, so hopefully we will hear some news soon. “As far as we are aware, Endless are the only party who have gone through due-diligence so they are the only realistic bidder at this point.” Scott added that the union hope job losses can be avoided if a buy-out is completed. He said: “Obviously our first port of call will be to speak to any new owners and seek assurances about their plans for the business. “We will be looking for assurances on jobs as well as terms and conditions.” It is believed Endless have beaten off competition from “chicken king” Ranjit Boparan, owner of 2 Sisters Food Group. Scott said: “There were a lot of rumours early on that they had made a bid for the poultry division. “They are a pretty big player in the UK meat and poultry industry.”

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