More than 100 jobs impacted as aerospace factory closes its doors

More than 100 jobs will be impacted after a decision to permanently close the doors of a Shropshire aerospace manufacturer.

Radius Aerospace blamed falling orders following Covid and rising energy costs for the closure of its factory on Whitchurch Road in Shrewsbury.

It said it employed 120 people at the site and that there would now be a 45-day period of collective consultation.

The company’s Sheffield site will remain open.

Kevan Donohoe, president of Radius Aerospace Europe, said: “For the last few years, the Radius Shrewsbury plant has experienced declining financial performance due to the significant changes in our industry as a result of the Covid pandemic, the reduction in the overall order book with key customers and their products, and more recently increased energy costs for the operation of the facility.

“Over the past three years, we have taken actions to adapt to this change in the market with our product offering, processes, and right sizing of the business to meet current demand.

“Unfortunately, despite these actions we have not been able to sufficiently improve the profitability of the site to ensure it remains a viable going concern.

“Due to this unfortunate position, we have come to the difficult decision to propose the closure of the Radius Shrewsbury, Whitchurch Road facility, with final operations completing by April 19, 2024.”