Stornoway Creel Factory Closure Announced
A factory in Lewis that has produced creels for the fishing industry for over 40 years is set to close. Gael Force Group, a marine equipment and engineering company, stated that the decision to shut its Stornoway facility was due to a decline in demand for creels, which are used to catch shellfish.
The company has not disclosed the number of staff affected by the closure, but it employs approximately 200 people across its group. Managing director Stewart Graham commented on the local employment situation, noting that a "strong" local jobs market has enabled factory employees to secure alternative employment.
Employee Concerns and Company History
Graham emphasized the importance of the workforce to the company, stating to BBC Naidheachdan that staff welfare was the "number one concern."
"We have an incredibly loyal and hardworking workforce,"
"We have multiple members of staff in the factory in Stornoway who have in excess of 30 years service."
He reflected on the company's experience over the past four decades, observing cycles of fluctuating demand for creels. However, Graham expressed concern that demand may not recover this time due to fewer new entrants into creel fishing.
Future Challenges and Investment Needs
Graham also highlighted the factory's need for significant investment to meet modern compliance standards and improve efficiencies.
"The factory is at the stage where it would need significant investment to bring it into modern compliance requirements and efficiencies.
So that brings the market decision into even greater focus."
This combination of declining demand and required investment has led to the decision to close the Stornoway facility.
