“The reality is that for Sealord Group to be economically sustainable long term, we must reduce our costs and decrease complexity to focus on our core business of fishing,” he said.
“Customer demand for wild harvest, sustainably caught New Zealand fish remains strong but the environment we operate in is increasingly complex and uncertain. This proposal to transition to a seasonal operation reduces our operating costs, increases returns from these commodity export products to a viable level, and allows us to invest in what we do best, which is catching and processing fish during the hoki season.”
According to the CEO, not shifting to a seasonal arrangement would threaten the viability of the company, which employs around 1,750 people.
Job losses in Nelson
Sealord’s proposals come as Carter Holt Harvey also announced it is closing its Eves Valley sawmill, impacting 142 employees, 1News reported.
Griffin’s Snacks is also proposing the closure of its Proper Crisps factory in Nelson, which will potentially affect 82 roles.