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British Ceramic Tile announces changes to manufacturing operation

British Ceramic Tile announced yesterday that it is proposing a reduction of up to 70 jobs as the business implements changes to its manufacturing operation and support functions.

Over the past two years British Ceramic Tile has repositioned its product offer in response to changing consumer demand, investing heavily in new, efficient inkjet technology to concentrate on premium quality, 'Made in Britain' products such as its high definition (HD) ranges.

Over the same period it has also moved away from the production of low value commodity tiles and converted most of its long established ranges from traditional manufacturing methods to the inkjet process. The new products have enabled the company to increase its sales revenue whilst producing the required volumes using less factory capacity and is therefore proposing to restructure its production operation to more accurately reflect future sales profiles, with a number of roles being made redundant across manufacturing, together with general business support functions.

British Ceramic Tile's Chief Executive, Tony Taylor, said: "Due to the increased demand for our new inkjet British-made products and reduction in output of commodity tiles, we are intending to rationalise a number of areas of the business, including the creation of a 24 hour, five day week shift pattern that focuses on our inkjet production within the factory. The proposed job cuts are regrettable but necessary as we improve efficiencies within our business for 2015 and beyond."

The company will shortly begin a period of collective consultation with its Employee Forum Representatives to discuss the proposed changes.

T: 01626 831391
W: www.britishceramictile.com

14th November 2014