Cairndow salmon processing jobs to be relocated to north-east

Associated Seafoods Limited announced last Friday (January 19) that it is relocating around 30 positions in salmon processing from Loch Fyne Oysters in Cairndow to Moray Seafoods in Buckie, Moray.

The company says the move will enable investment in a new production facility for ready-to-eat foods Fyne.

Loch Fyne Oysters’ restaurant, delicatessen, oyster farm and mussel farm will continue at Cairndow with 45 positions still in those departments plus an upgrade to facilities within 18-24 months.

As a result of changes to some roles and the opening at Loch hours of the Oyster Bar, it is expected that an additional 15 positions will be available to those in Cairndow who cannot relocate.

Under these plans, everyone who is currently employed in salmon processing in Cairndow will be offered a job in Moray or alternatively at Associated Seafoods’ other site in Arbroath, Angus.

Victor West, chief executive of Associated Seafoods, said: “We remain fully committed to the Loch Fyne base and anticipate a complete upgrade of the facilities within the next two years.

“This further investment and redeployment will ensure we continue to develop the

Loch Fyne Oysters brand and create new high-quality, premium foods.

“There is a job at our sites in Buckie and Arbroath for everyone who is currently employed in Cairndow but we understand that relocation may not be possible for all staff.

“We will be consulting with those affected to reach the best outcome for all and giving them as much time as possible to decide what they want to do.”

ASL will be consulting with local business support organisations and job agencies to identify opportunities for staff who decide not to relocate.