Abattoir closure a loss
Abattoir closure a loss
THE COLLAPSE of Winders, the Blackpool and Lancs-based abattoir last week, after 100 years of trading, was described by auctioneers as a sad loss to the livestock sector far beyond its main trading area in the north-west.
The companys demise was not believed to have left bad debts with many farmers, although some auction marts might be affected.
Lancaster Auction Mart managing director Alistair Watson confirmed that Winders had left "fairly substantial debt" in outstanding payments that should have been paid to the mart for stock sold direct to the abattoir, but the amount would be covered by insurance.
"This is a terrible blow to the livestock sector in England and Scotland and leaves a very big hole. The company had made substantial investment in its plant. I hope something can be salvaged but it is early days yet," said Mr Watson. *