Schoeller Allibert announces potential closure of Cheshire site

Schoeller Allibert has announced plans to cease its manufacturing operations in Winsford Industrial Estate by January 2025.

The Dutch company says the move will help improve efficiency.

A spokesperson said: “As part of Schoeller Allibert’s strategy to accelerate growth in all areas of the business, Schoeller Allibert has announced a proposal to consolidate and strengthen its manufacturing and supply chain operations across Europe.

“This proposal could lead to the consolidation of the UK manufacturing operations in Winsford to other Schoeller Allibert sites by January 2025.”

The production site on Road One, Winsford Industrial Estate (Image: Google Maps)

For more than 65 years, Schoeller Allibert has been developing and manufacturing returnable transit packaging, used in a wide range of industries.

Today, it is one of the European market leaders, with a turnover of €550 million in 2023.

Across its 11 production sites, the firm produces 30 million products.

A formal consultation regarding the future of the Winsford site, the only UK location, began this month.

The company says that in the event of closure, there will be no disruption to customers and that attempts will be made to retain as many members of staff as possible.

“The proposed consolidation of our operations would ensure that Schoeller Allibert is operating as efficiently and effectively as possible and secure Schoeller Allibert’s long-term competitiveness,” the spokesperson added.

“Within the proposal it is intended to continue Schoeller Allibert’s sales presence in the UK.

“For customers, there will be no disruption to our service during this consultation period and beyond.

“Schoeller Allibert will support all employees throughout this period and wherever possible try to retain as many people as is feasible.”