A major west Cumbrian employer has confirmed that 113 jobs will be lost next month as a production unit is closed.

Amcor Flexibles, based at Salterbeck Industrial Estate, which makes packaging, has informed staff of the cuts following a consultation period which started in July.  

Bosses say the restructure will help the business to ensure it is “best positioned to serve customers” and will “succeed in the long-term”.

A spokesperson from Amcor Flexibles said: “From year to year, we adapt our operations and capabilities to the changing market landscape and opportunities, to ensure we are best positioned to serve our customers. 

“To help us set up Amcor Flexibles Cumbria to succeed in the long-term, on July 12, 2022, Amcor announced the proposal to close one of the production units (Short Run Flexo) at AF Cumbria, subject to consultation with workforce representatives. 

 “This proposal would mean that Amcor Flexibles Cumbria would remain focused on the site’s higher performing production areas - Amcell and Extrusion Portfolio.

“The consultation period with employee representatives around a social plan to support employees concluded in September 2022.

“Amcor Flexibles Cumbria is working towards closing the one production unit (Short Run Flexo) in December. The approximate number of co-workers leaving Amcor Flexibles Cumbria is 113 who we are supporting during this period of change.”

Amcor Flexibles dates back to the 1860s, when Yorkshire stonemason Samuel Ramsden relocated to Australia and established Victoria's first paper mill.

In the 1970s and 1980s it diversified the range of packaging products it created.

It now operates more than 180 sites in more than 40 countries and describes itself as "a global leader in responsible packaging solutions".

The company supplies rigid and flexible packaging products into the food, beverage, healthcare, home and personal care and tobacco industries.

Amcor Flexibles supplies packaging for Pepsico, the company which owns the Walkers Crisps brand.

READ MORE: Fears for up to 120 jobs at Amcor Flexibles