More than 440 Mitsubishi staff facing redundancy

More than 440 employees at the Mitsubishi Electric factory in Livingston, West Lothian, face potential redundancy as the company grapples with a significant downturn in demand. The factory, which has been producing heat pumps for the past 30 years, currently employs around 1,600 people.

Mitsubishi Electric has announced that 443 positions are at risk due to a “widespread downturn in demand” for its products, particularly in mainland Europe, which has been the primary market for the factory’s output.

Livingston MP Gregor Poynton expressed deep concern over the situation, attributing the issue to “short-term economic pressures” that have led to a drastic reduction in the factory’s order book. Poynton highlighted the critical role of the workforce in producing world-leading products such as air source heat pumps and air conditioning units, which are essential for future decarbonization efforts.

In a statement to the House of Commons, Poynton emphasized the skills and contributions of the factory’s employees. “These are highly skilled workers creating products that are vital for our efforts to decarbonize the economy,” he said. “Through no fault of their own, they are facing job losses due to short-term economic pressures that have diminished our order book.”

Poynton has called on Scotland Secretary Ian Murray to meet with him, factory management, and workers to explore potential support from the UK government. In response, Murray has committed to prioritizing discussions on the matter. “I am really sorry to hear about the difficulties faced by Mitsubishi Electric’s workforce and the uncertainty they are experiencing,” Murray said.

A spokesperson for Mitsubishi Electric acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that the decision to initiate the redundancy consultation process was not made lightly. “Our priority during this period is to handle the process with the utmost respect and care for everyone involved,” the spokesperson said.

Despite some growth in the UK market, the majority of the factory’s production has been destined for mainland Europe, where demand has significantly declined. This downturn has prompted the company to consider restructuring and potential job cuts. The spokesperson reassured that Mitsubishi Electric remains committed to the Livingston facility and its heat pump manufacturing operations. “We do not anticipate any effect on deliveries or supply,” they added.

The potential redundancies have sparked concerns about the future of the factory and its workforce. Local leaders and workers are anxiously awaiting further developments and support measures to address the economic challenges faced by the plant.