Statement on Browns Food Group Consultation
Following yesterday's reports regarding Browns Food Group announcement of a consultation with employees, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council's Economy and Resources Committee, Rob Davidson, and Vice Chair Archie Dryburgh, have released the following statement:
Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council's Economy and Resources Committee, Rob Davidson said: "The announcement from Browns Food Group to consult on potential redundancies is worrying news for our region and for other the other areas where they have based their businesses. Browns are a big employer in our region, and I know it will be a worrying time for their workforce.
It is clear that Browns have done all that they can to get through this difficult period but are now suffering from the knock-on effects of reduced trading of their customers.
We recognised that the COVID-19 pandemic would have a significant impact on our local economy and businesses would be greatly affected, and we have been working to support local businesses, and continue to do this. We will do all that we can to help Browns and their staff, working with our partners at South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) and Partnership Action for Continuing Employment (PACE) to provide support for any staff who may be affected."
Vice Chair, Archie Dryburgh said: "We are committed to finding a resolution to this situation and will do what we can to help Browns through this. Our immediate thoughts are with those who may be affected, the workforce and their families.
We know that Browns employees remain a dedicated workforce and we will do all that we can to either help the business emerge from the current difficulties, or as a worst-case scenario, help Browns' workers find alternative suitable employment.
We realise that more of our regions companies and their staff will undoubtedly be affected by the impact of this pandemic, but please be reassured that this Council and our partners will do all we can to help and support them."
