Industry responds to Ford closure

The industry has reacted to the new that Ford is closing its Bridgend plant, with a potential loss of 1,700 people plus many more in the supply chain.

Ford announced it would close the plant in September 2020, insisting the decision had nothing to do with Brexit.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, ‘This announcement is another crushing blow for UK automotive manufacturing and, especially, the staff and their families in and around Bridgend. Ford’s challenges are not unique: economic uncertainty at home and abroad, technological change and global trade issues are stressing markets and forcing companies to review operations and make difficult decisions.

‘Success in this fiercely competitive global industry, however, starts at home and we hope that all efforts will be made over the coming weeks to restore confidence, bolster demand and ensure there is long term competitiveness for this crucial sector.’

Meanwhile, Rachel Clift, health and wellbeing director at automotive charity Ben, said, ‘The changing landscape of the automotive industry means a less certain future for its workers and their families, creating an increasingly pressured environment for them. This news about Ford is only testament to this.

‘In a challenging world, the lifeblood of the industry – its people – should be put first. As the automotive sector’s charity and support service, we’ve seen a big increase in people worried about their mental health, with money problems including debt also a growing concern. Job losses can be a catalyst for these issues and spark a ripple effect that impacts family dependents, too. The strain of losing a job, and pressure to find another, while balancing other demands, can leave skilled people feeling stuck, anxious and depressed. We support those people, and their family dependants, through life’s toughest challenges.’