Wigtownshire business closure called 'bitter blow' to community
26 jobs will be lost at the manufacturing plant in Bladnoch
The news that local Wigtownshire business, Signature Gifts, has commenced liquidation proceedings is being called a “bitter blow” to the area's economy.
The firm, which specialises in personal gifts, was established in 2002 and carries out manufacturing at Bladnoch, employing 26 people locally, and 56 UK-wide.
A plea for support is being made to the Scottish Government and the local Enterprise Agency to find staff members alternative employment.
Commenting on the news, south Scotland Labour MSP Colin Smyth said, “This is a bitter blow to the Wigtownshire economy, but in particular the loyal workforce at Bladnoch and my thoughts are very much with them and their families.
“The decision by the firm’s owners to sell a connected company which removed business from Signature Gifts has clearly made what was an already difficult position for the firm , impossible.
“You hope that a buyer can be found that would continue manufacturing at Bladnoch but we can’t underestimate how challenging that will be.
“This level of potential job losses in a small rural community is significant and it is vital that support is given, ideally to find a way forward for the company but realistically to support workers finding alternative employment.
"I have urged the Scottish Government and the local Enterprise Agency to ensure that support is in place urgently”.