Young’s Deputy Chief Executive Mike Parker has issued an update on the situation relating to the company’s scampi factory at Annan in Scotland, following the outbreak of a major fire at the site on Thursday 8 March.
The investigation into the precise cause of the fire is continuing. The company, however, confirms again that the fire was an accident and that there is no suspicion of malicious cause.
The main part of the factory affected is the frying and coating area, which has suffered major structural damage and is likely to require a complete rebuild. It will still be some days before a redevelopment plan can be confirmed. In the meantime Young’s is continuing to purchase Scottish langoustine as normal from its regular suppliers. Scampi production has temporarily been transferred to Young’s facilities in Grimsby, to maintain continuity of supply to customers.
All staff at Annan remain in Young’s employment and are currently re-deployed to assist with the clean-up operation. Specialist cleaning is in progress and that company hopes to have some aspects of normal site operation up and running again within a week, subject to the proper safety and hygiene inspections.
Further information will be released once the timetable for redevelopment can be confirmed.
