Walsall bakery to close with 236 job losses

AN HISTORIC bakery will close early next year with the loss of 236 jobs. Staff at Walsall’s Maple Leaf Bakery have been informed of the situation after a deal with a potential buyer fell through.

A bakery has existed on the Raleigh Street, Birchill, site since the 19th century. The current incumbent produces Harvestime loaves.

It became clear in November that the site could shut after owner Maple Leaf Bakery UK announced it was pulling out of the sliced bread market but it was hoped that a buyer could be found for the site and jobs saved.

Indeed, talks with a buyer were in the “advanced stages” before the plug was pulled. Closure is now expected in February or March.