Mitsubishi factory faces job cuts amid demand downturn
- Mitsubishi Electric's Livingston factory faces potential job cuts, with 443 positions at risk due to declining demand.
- The factory has been producing heat pumps for 30 years and employs around 1,600 people.
- Local MP Gregor Poynton is advocating for government support to assist affected workers during this difficult time.
More than 440 employees at the Mitsubishi Electric factory in Livingston, West Lothian, are facing potential redundancy due to a significant downturn in demand for their products. The factory, which has been manufacturing heat pumps for three decades, currently employs around 1,600 people. The company has cited a widespread decline in orders, particularly from mainland Europe, as the primary reason for this difficult decision. Livingston MP Gregor Poynton expressed deep concern over the situation, highlighting the skilled workforce that produces essential products for the decarbonisation of the economy. He noted that the decline in orders is attributed to short-term economic pressures, which have adversely affected the factory's operations. Poynton has called for government support to address the challenges faced by the workers. In response to the situation, Scotland Secretary Ian Murray has committed to prioritizing meetings with Poynton, management, and workers to explore potential support measures. Murray expressed sympathy for the employees facing uncertainty during this challenging period. A spokesperson for Mitsubishi Electric emphasized that the decision to initiate a consultation process was not made lightly. They reassured that the company remains committed to the Livingston facility and the production of heat pumps, stating that they do not expect any impact on deliveries or supply despite the current challenges.