Cooper Melksham cutback plans to proceed after consultation ends

Cooper Tire Europe has confirmed that it will proceed with its plan to end light vehicle tyre production at its facility in Melksham, Wiltshire. The company’s latest statement follows the conclusion of its collective consultation process with employee representatives, which began in October 2018. The company expects to phase out light vehicle tyre production over a period of approximately 10 months, with an estimated 300 roles eliminated. Around 400 jobs will remain on site in a variety of functions, including those related to the tyre manufacturer’s Europe headquarters and Technical Center, which are both based at Melksham.

Cooper said that its European business will obtain light vehicle tyres to meet customer needs from other sites within its global production network. Employees whose roles will be eliminated will receive appropriate notice, enhanced separation pay and continued career services, the manufacturer added.

The 400 roles remaining in Melksham will support functions continuing to operate out of the Wiltshire site. These include motorsports and motorcycle tyre production, Cooper’s materials business, Cooper Tire Europe headquarters and sales and marketing, and the Europe Technical Center.

“We are doing all possible to assist impacted employees as we take this necessary step to enhance Cooper Tire Europe’s competitiveness, enable our growth plans and secure a sustainable long-term future for our business,” said Jaap van Wessum, general manager – Cooper Tire Europe.