Walkers Shortbread stops production but will pay employees 100% of wages
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Walkers Shortbread Limited will cease production from today at 2.30pm until Monday, April 20, it has announced.
Employees who can work remotely will be asked to continue to work as normal, those who cannot, will be asked to stay at home.
The company, which has factories in Aberlour and Elgin, said: "All employees will receive 100 per cent of pay until the end of that period. The position will be reviewed by Thursday, April 16.
"The safety and well-being of employees is the paramount consideration of the company.
"The Government is keen to maintain food supply and whilst strenuous efforts have been made to ensure that social distancing and the highest standards of hygiene are firmly in place, the company has listened to the genuine concerns of employees and has taken this difficult decision.”
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead has welcomed the decision.
“This is the right decision for the workforce and company," he said.
“I am particularly delighted that staff will continue to receive full pay and urge all employers to follow their example.
"I have been in regular contact with the company in recent days and know this is a difficult time for everyone. We look forward to getting through this and this incredible company getting back to doing what it does best - making some of the world’s best products.”
