Fraserburgh fish processing plant to close

Cod and haddock are landed at Fraserburgh. Picture: PA

ONE of Aberdeenshire’s leading fish processing companies is to close with the loss of more than 50 jobs.

The family-run Buchan company of G&J Jack has been a major employer in Fraserburgh for more than half a century. But the company is to close its doors before the end of the year, blaming restrictions on fish landings and a general downturn in the local fishing industry for the decision to shut its Harbour Road processing plant.

The company’s 55-strong workforce of filleters, labourers, drivers and office staff are facing redundancy.

Company director Ian Jack said: “For four generations, G&J Jack has been operating as one of Scotland’s most respected and successful fish processing companies, delivering high-quality fish to customers throughout Europe.

“The decline in the industry has been significant over the last two decades, with the white fish sector in which G&J Jack operates being affected by reduced fish stocks and quota availability.”

He added: “Attempts to sell the business as a going concern have not proved successful.”

Stewart Stevenson, the SNP MSP for Banffshire and the Buchan Coast, described the closure as a major blow for Fraserburgh. He said: “It is very disappointing to hear that a long-established company like Jacks is being forced to take these measures.

“My thoughts are with the staff and their families at this very difficult time. I will be making sure that the government provides them with all the assistance they need to find new employment. For a town like Fraserburgh, this is a very substantial blow. It is a well-known business and it will be sorely missed.”

Local MP Eilidh Whiteford said: “This is terrible news for the workforce to receive just before Christmas. I am ready to lend any assistance that I can to support them. I would hope that discussions over the next few days could open up new possibilities.”