Roberts Bakery has taken the “difficult decision” to close its Derbyshire plant as the company sharpens restructuring efforts.
The site is responsible for manufacturing artisan and specialised bread and morning goods.
A mandatory 30-day consultation period with the Ilkeston factory’s 38 workers will begin shortly.
The closure follows severe cuts to Roberts’ Cheshire factory revealed in July, when it announced plans to slash up to 250 jobs.
“The decision follows a comprehensive review of the company’s product portfolio, overall footprint, and long-term business strategy,” Roberts said in a statement detailing the latest move.
“While the Ilkeston site has contributed significantly to the Roberts business over time, the review has concluded that the site is no longer aligned with the company’s future plans.”
Roberts has faced difficulties since June 2023, when a devastating fire at its Northwich bread plant destroyed nearly two-thirds of its production capacity.
While insurance recoveries helped the business return to profit in the year to 31 August 2024, Roberts struggled with dampened volumes as customers secured alternative supply contracts. Turnover fell 21% to £76.1m as a result.
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