Alliance’s 139-year-old Smithfield plant in Timaru is set to close, resulting in the loss of 600 jobs.
Sheepmeat, calf, and night shift venison processing at the plant concluded at the end of September. Venison processing during the day shift at Smithfield will continue until at least the end of December, after which the plant will be permanently closed.
Impacted employees will have the chance to apply for re-deployment at other processing plants operated by Alliance. However, this decision will result in the redundancy of the majority of the Smithfield staff.
Alliance Group’s chief executive officer, Willie Wiese, stated that the decision to close the plant was profoundly challenging for the company.
“Unfortunately, we must face the reality of declining sheep processing numbers as a result of land-use change. This has resulted in surplus capacity in our plant network. We cannot maintain excess processing capacity when livestock numbers don’t support it,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with our people and their families affected by the closure of this plant. Smithfield has been a familiar presence in the region for almost 140 years, and we know this decision will impact the Timaru community and South Canterbury.”
Wiese recognises the input received from individuals during the consultation period.
“Despite exploring all possible alternatives, we were left with no viable option. While we know the outcome is not what anyone wanted, we are committed to working through the closure process as respectfully as possible.”
Smithfield employees facing redundancy will receive compensation in line with their employment contracts.
A local task force is being established to assist individuals impacted by the recent announcement. This group will coordinate support services for those facing redundancy and work to identify job opportunities with local employers.
Additionally, workers or families affected by the closure of the Smithfield site who need support can reach out to the following agencies:
- Ministry of Social Development, 0800 559 009
- Office of James Meager, MP 03 683 2009
- Timaru District Council, 03 687 7200