Distribution centre closes after Covid-19 outbreak

Banana supplier Fyffes has shut a distribution centre in Coventry after 20 more staff tested positive for Covid-19, taking the total to 30.

An outbreak at the site on Richardson Way, Cross Point Business Park was reported last week after an initial 10 staff members tested positive for the virus.

All 186 staff at the centre were tested and a further 20 have now come back positive.

The company said: “Although the majority of results came back negative, as a precaution we have suspended normal operations for 48 hours.

“The site will reopen for business on Wednesday 19 August. During this period additional deep cleaning of the entire workplace, and enhanced disinfection measures will be undertaken with support from a small skeleton staff, as agreed with public health officials. Nothing is more important than the health and safety of our people.”

It added: “We have robust business continuity plans which have been invoked and we are confident that we can continue to supply bananas to our customers with minimal disruption. All our customers have been extremely accommodating and supportive and mindful of employee welfare throughout. Our products are healthy, safe and nutritious and research indicates the virus cannot be spread via fruit.

“We would like to thank all our employees for their ongoing commitment and support. We wish any employees affected a speedy recovery and urge anyone reading this statement to follow best practice and government guidelines in order to reduce the risk of infection.”