OKI to Reduce Manpower in Printer Manufacture Division

OKI is to lose around 175 people from its factory in Scotland after Japanese parent firm OKI Electric announced the global restructure of its printer division.

The move could see the 350-strong workforce halved over the coming year and into 2014, although it is expected that the majority of jobs will be shed during 2013. A consultation is currently underway.

The site supports and manufactures a range of products and consumables for OKI’s printer division in the EMEA region, and the restructure will see the site become a dedicated consumables manufacturing facility.

The company said the changes were essential to enable its printer business to remain competitive and meet changing customer needs whilst remaining profitable.

A spokesman said: “We are aware this will be a significant blow to our staff and to the local community in Cumbernauld and as we enter into a period of consultation, our priority is to support affected employees whilst we go through this difficult process therefore no further details can be provided at this time.”

The news comes four months after OKI announced a raft of new appointments to its UK sales team and the relocation of its UK head office from Slough to Egham.

The company declined to comment further stating: “As we are entering into a period of consultation, we are unable to engage in any media interviews.  Our priority is to support affected employees.”