Kellogg’s to close Trafford Park factory that has been open since the 1930s

Kellogg’s decision to shut down its Trafford Park plant has been described as a “very sad day” and a significant setback for Greater Manchester by local leaders.

There had been huge question marks looming over the future of the site, which has served Manchester and the UK since the 1930s.

About one million boxes of cereals including Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, and Coco Pops are made there every day.

It was Kellogg’s first British Factory, opened on 24th May 1938,  which cost $2 million to build and covers 130,000 square feet.

Trafford Park Kelloggs factory

The future of the 27-acre Trafford Park site was put into question in February 2024 when Kellanova first proposed its closure​​, and that decision has now been confirmed following formal talks with trade unions and employee representatives.

Kellanova, the parent company, announced on May 16 that the factory will close by the end of 2026, resulting in the loss of 360 jobs.

Company officials cited the lack of a long-term future for the site as the reason for the closure.

Why is the Kelloggs factory closing?

Chris Silcock, UK Managing Director, explained that the plant’s layout, which dates back to the 1930s, is outdated. He noted that only half the space in the buildings is currently used and that maintaining the factory would require unsustainable investment.

He said: “The closure is nothing to do with the outstanding people who work there.

“However, we remain clear there isn’t a long-term future for the site.

“It’s laid out in a way that made sense in the 1930s, with food travelling up and down six floors in a legacy manufacturing process.

“What’s more, we only use half the space in the buildings and the investment required to maintain the factory in the coming years is simply not viable.”

Trade Union USDAW

In response to the closure, trade unions have negotiated an enhanced redundancy package for the affected employees. Mick Murray, USDAW area organiser, stated that the union had engaged in thorough consultation with the company and determined that the site could not support modern manufacturing processes.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham described the closure as a “huge blow” to the local economy.

What did Andy Burnham Say?

In a statement on May 17, he expressed sympathy for the affected employees and their families and noted that despite efforts to keep the jobs in Greater Manchester, it was not feasible.

Burnham emphasised the importance of supporting the employees in finding new opportunities.

Trafford Council leader Tom Ross echoed these sentiments, calling it a “very sad day for Trafford.”

He acknowledged Kellogg’s long-standing presence in the community, highlighting its historical significance and the many residents who have worked there over the years.

Ross commended the unions for negotiating a substantial compensation package and offered the council’s support to any employee needing assistance, directing them to email [email protected].