More than 100 workers at a Manchester steel fabrication company with roots in the Second World War have been laid off, with staff told they would receive no working hours through December and into January, according to the union.
Thomas Storey Fabrications Group, based in Openshaw, is known for producing Bailey bridges for Allied forces during World War Two. Workers were informed they would not be allocated shifts, leaving many facing an uncertain future after what the union says has been a prolonged lack of communication from the company.
The GMB union said affected employees have received no clear updates on the firm’s situation, despite many having spent decades with the business. The company has faced financial difficulties in recent years, though it was rescued from administration around six months ago following its acquisition by the TAL Group, which at the time stated it was committed to supporting and developing UK engineering firms.
Gary Edwards, GMB Regional Organiser, criticised the handling of the situation, saying: “The treatment of this loyal workforce is awful.” He added: “Some people have 20 years service – and to be stonewalled by the company for information while being laid off unpaid is unacceptable.”
Edwards called for urgent clarity from management, stating: “There must be communication and a resolution to this situation quickly.”
The union is now urging the company to engage directly with workers to explain its plans and provide certainty on future employment at the historic Manchester site.
