Roberts Bakery Plans Closing Derbyshire Factory, 38 Jobs at Risk

Roberts Bakery has announced plans to close its Ilkeston manufacturing facility in Derbyshire, putting 38 jobs at risk as part of a strategic restructuring effort. The closure follows a comprehensive review of the company’s product portfolio, overall footprint, and long-term business strategy, with the Ilkeston site deemed no longer aligned with future plans. This move comes after significant challenges faced by Roberts, including a devastating fire at its Northwich plant in 2023 that destroyed two-thirds of its production capacity, leading to a 21% turnover decline. Despite recovering to profitability, the company has experienced reduced volumes as customers shifted to alternative suppliers. A mandatory 30-day consultation period with affected employees is set to begin, with the company pledging support for those impacted. The decision reflects broader pressures in the UK bread market, including increased competition and falling demand for standard white bread, alongside recent consolidation moves among major bakery groups.