McCain Foods will stop producing frozen pizzas in the UK, amid disappointing sales.
About 40 jobs are under threat at the Scarborough factory, which will move away from baking and topping pizzas in favour of producing backed potatoes.
The statement released by the company confirmed that declining pizza sales are the reason behind the move, and that the surge in demand for its Ready Baked jacket potatoes, which are sold frozen in boxes of four, would offer a better return.
While the cost of converting the prepared food facility currently used to produce the pizzas will be significant, the company believes it will be money well spent, as sales are expected to continue increasing.
“The scale of the work required means decommissioning the current unit and extensive installation of new equipment,” McCain managing director Alan Bridges said.
“As a result, we have met employers and made preparations for a period of consultation because, regrettably, up to 40 jobs may be at risk of redundancy.
“The exact number will become clearer once the consultation takes place and all options for sustainable alternative employment have been fully explored.”
Image: The Scarborough News