Over 500 jobs at risk as manufacturer reveals plans to shut Birmingham factory

Over 500 jobs are under threat after GKN Automotive announced plans to close its Birmingham factory.

The company has said that the factory, which produces drivelines, principally for JLR and other automotive companies, will close in 18 months time.

Since 2018, GKN has been owned by venture capital firm Melrose.

A spokesperson for GKN Automotive told TheBusinessDesk.com: “Proposing this closure is a difficult decision which has been made despite significant effort and investment over the past ten years to reduce the high operating costs at the Birmingham assembly site. Sadly, an increasingly competitive global market means that the site is no longer viable. Supporting our people is our priority as we consult on our proposals.”

Unite national officer Des Quinn said: “The workforce have been left shocked and angry to learn that management is looking to close this highly viable site.

“Unite is now seeking urgent meetings with senior management at GKN to understand the business case and the logic behind this decision.

“Unite is committed to working with GKN to find a feasible solution, which will keep the factory open and preserve the jobs of this highly skilled workforce.”