Horticulture Research International (HRI) has announced the redundancy of more than 40 staff at its East Malling and Wye sites, following a similar process for it sites at Wellesbourne, Kirton and Efford in September.
The reduction in staffing levels is seen as a necessary process to ensure that the company will be stable and financially viable to meet its aims of meeting and surpassing the requirements of existing and future customers.
HRI management, who will remain responsible for East Malling and Wye until March 31 2004, has expressed that it has been a difficult process for all involved. The company has stated that a range of support services will be available to those facing redundancy.
An independent research operation will be set up to preserve the horticultural research and development of HRI East Malling and Wye.
Hugh Lowe, chairman of the shadow board of directors who have been appointed to guide the new organisation, said: “In order to meet the future needs of the horticultural, environmental and ornamental plant sectors. The new independent organisation, which will be known as East Malling Research, must concentrate on it strongest areas of research.”
Lowe added his disappointment regarding job cuts. He said: “We know that HRI will endeavour to minimise the disruption for those who will be leaving and we do everything we can to help. We will be very sorry to lose them.”
No comments yet