JCB to cut working week after coronavirus hits supply chain

Manufacturer JCB is to cut production and working hours after suffering from a shortage of parts made in China after the coronavirus epidemic.

Some 4,000 staff at the firm’s factory in Staffordshire will be subject to reduced working hours from Monday with overtime suspended.

JCB chief operating officer said: “The disruption to the component supply chain in the UK comes at a time when demand for JCB products is very strong, so while this course of action is very unfortunate, it is absolutely necessary to protect the business and our skill base.”

Working hours will be cut from 39 to 34 hours a week, with bosses saying staff will be paid the a full working week, but will have to make the hours up later in the year.

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