Appliance brand Hotpoint, a subsidiary of Beko Europe, has confirmed it will close its manufacturing facility in Bristol before the end of the year.
The company told the factory’s staff that the site in Yate will close by December 31, 2024, which means that more than 140 members of staff will lose their jobs.
In July, Beko Europe opened a consultation into the future of the site, warning it was considering closing the tumble dryer production facility. At the time, the company said it was “not technically or economically feasible to remodel the Yate site to continue operations” to meet proposed legislation about heat pump products.
Beko believes tumble dryer appliances have become less popular with consumers in the UK and Ireland in recent years, as they are more interested in pursuing energy-efficient heat pump technologies.
In a statement from Beko, the company said that employees who will be affected by the closure have already been notified. Beko’s statement added: “We are continuing to support all employees and are grateful for their continued efforts and engagement throughout. We have also informed the site’s MP and local councillors of the news.
“Delivering the best products and services to our partners and customers remains our top priority and we will continue to provide transparent and ongoing updates to you and our stakeholders.”
According to the BBC, a South Gloucestershire Council spokesperson said that the council was arranging to provide employment coaching and support for employees.
The Yate factory has been used by various brands for manufacturing for almost 110 years, having first been opened in 1917 as a repair centre for aircrafts.
Hotpoint’s parent company, Beko Europe, officially launched earlier this year, following the successful merger of appliance brands Arcelik and Whirlpool Corporation. The appliance giant also owns the Indesit and Grundig brands.
