The company, one of Europe's leading suppliers of printed healthcare packaging, says the plant closure decision follows a review of capacity across its UK operations, the objective of which is "to strengthen overall operational capability through better utilisation of existing capacity".
The Bedford factor produces folding cartons exclusively for the pharma sector. Field's management says the proposed closure would take place "over coming months". It will be consulting with employee representatives and putting forward an employee support programme. If the planned "reorganisation" takes place as proposed, the company says it will "ensure service is maintained at the highest level" so customer supply is uninterrupted. This will entail the Nottingham and Leicester sites "supporting Bedford's current customer requirements".
"The marketplace is progressively becoming more global as customers both relocate to lower cost economies and source packaging on an increasingly global basis," explains Field Boxmore Healthcare GB md Mark Wenham. "This review's objective is to ensure we have the right cost base, in each of our markets, to offer our customers the quality and service they require. We remain committed to establishing a truly global supply network for the pharmaceuticals and healthcare sector. Our recent acquisition of Arlington Press, the leading US supplier of patient information leaflets, and the announced construction of a world-class factory in China dedicated to this market, further extends our position."
Wenham says of the planned Bedford closure: "Trading conditions continue to be typified by strong price pressure and margin erosion. This action is considered essential to create a sustainable business that can continue to attract ongoing investment and best serve the requirements of its customers."
