Market Drayton in fear over dairy job losses
The loss of more than 40 jobs at Shropshire's biggest dairy Muller would be a huge blow to the town in which it is based, civic and business leaders have warned.
People in Market Drayton have described the announcement as terrible and fear it could have repercussions on the town.
German company Muller-Wiseman, which runs the site at Market Drayton, said it had entered into a 30-day period of consultation with staff as it sought to make "operational efficiencies".
A spokesman for the company said up to 43 jobs could be axed.
Mark Whittle, chairman of Market Drayton Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said: "It is dreadful news and a big blow to the town. It will be terrible if they get rid of local people and keep on those who travel in from 30 or 40 miles away.
"It is going to impact 43 families and there will be repercussions around the town.
"It is very disappointing because we have always stood by Muller, so why can't they stand by us?"
Councillor Roger Hughes, who represents Market Drayton West on Shropshire Council, said: "It is very sad, especially when people lose their jobs.
"The dairy industry is under tremendous pressure and I can understand the difficulties they are having."
Councillor Roy Aldcroft, mayor of Market Drayton, said it was a sad day for the town, adding he had always viewed the food industry as being fairly strong in the area.
The spokesman for Muller said the business will work closely with employees who are affected by these proposals during the consultation period to ensure that their views are taken into account.
"After the 30-day consultation period ends, the business will work to complete its strategic review before arriving at any decisions," he added.
It is not known which departments of the dairy are affected.
Roger Emery, operations director at Muller Dairy, said: "We must continually adapt to changes in the requirements being made of us. We operate in a very competitive environment."
