Hundreds of jobs could go in Dingwall as firm suffers 'heavy losses'

The Dingwall-based Edinburgh Salmon Company (ESCo) is set to close or be sold by Européenne de la Mer, a subsidiary of Thai Union Group, it emerged today.

The company said it continued "to suffer heavy losses as a result of highly challenging market conditions and industry trends".

It employs 163 staff and up to 100 agency staff, who were told the news this morning.

A statement from Européenne de la Mer said it will "actively pursue and explore all viable divestment opportunities in an attempt tp avoid, reduce, and/or mitigate the potential impacts upon its valued employees."

Customers and suppliers are now being told about the proposal, as well as community leaders and government representatives.

A 45-day period of "collective consultation" will follow once workforce representatives have been appointed.

The company said: "If we are unable to find a viable alternative to the proposed closure we will then carry out individual consultations with at risk employees.

"We would like to thank our employees at ESCo and across our wider business for their support, commitment and professionalism at this difficult time."

Dingwall-based MSP Kate Forbes said: "“I know staff at the firm, some of whom have been there for over a decade, and this is obviously a time of uncertainty and anxiety for them and their families.

“I sincerely hope that a buyer can be found quickly, because 250 jobs is huge for a place like Dingwall.

“I hope to speak to the owners soon, and am happy to support them in leaving no stone unturned so that the business can have a viable future.”

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