Talley’s Seafood has confirmed it will shut down its fish processing factory in Westport, a move that signals a major shift as the company looks to streamline how it operates.
The final day of processing at the Westport site will be Friday, 15 May.
Chief executive officer Tony Hazlett said the decision followed a strategic review, with fish processing operations set to be consolidated.
Hazlett said all 92 affected staff would be offered employment opportunities, including positions that will remain in Westport.
“The company is working closely with employees to support their transition, including opportunities across its Motueka, Blenheim, Canterbury, Timaru and Greymouth sites, as well as at sea on factory vessels,” Hazlett said.
Support measures will include CV assistance, job search and training opportunities, wellbeing services, and some help with relocation and accommodation where possible.
Key functions at the Westport site, such as ship unloads, weigh-ins, chiller operations and logistics, will continue.
“Our Westport team have made a significant contribution to Talley’s Seafood over many years,” he said. “This is a difficult decision, but it reflects how our business has evolved and how we need to operate into the future.”
The company will continue fish processing operations in Motueka and Timaru.
“While it’s positive that Talley’s is offering alternative roles, the loss of processing jobs locally will still be felt across the community,” Development West Coast chief executive Heath Milne said, describing the outcome as tough for Westport.
“Our thoughts are with the workers and families affected.”