70 jobs to go at Glen Dimplex in Dunleer

Glen Dimplex has confirmed that approximately 70 jobs in Dunleer are to go this year, with the process expected to be completed by October 2025, but says that it is "committed to a multi-million investment in its facility in Dunleer so that it can be re-purposed to accommodate a relocation of the Group’s fast growing sales and distribution arm (Glen Dimplex Ireland) and the 70 associated roles from Cloghran, County Dublin".

Local representative, Cllr Dolores Minogue, has said that the news is "a devastating blow to our local community and the surrounding areas", but added that the sales and distribution roles that will be relocated to Dunleer will be a silver lining on a dark day.

In a statement to the Dundalk Democrat on Thursday, Glen Dimplex said: "In February 2024 Glen Dimplex announced a major reorganisation and investment in its operations on the Island of Ireland and Lithuania to reposition itself for growth in the electric heating markets in Europe.  A large part of these plans have been completed or in progress.

"As previously announced, Glen Dimplex is committed to a multi-million investment in its facility in Dunleer so that it can be re-purposed to accommodate a relocation of the Group’s fast growing sales and distribution arm (Glen Dimplex Ireland) and the 70 associated roles from Cloghran, County Dublin.

"The major investment in the Group’s manufacturing site in Lithuania is well underway which will leverage existing manufacturing capacity and become a centre of excellence for storage heating and panel heaters.

"During 2024 there has been a major contraction in the market for heat pumps across Europe due to Geopolitical factors, changing policies and support schemes, and lower gas prices. Due to the weaker demand outlook for heat pumps across Europe in the near future, Glen Dimplex is proposing to consolidate its investment and manufacturing capacity for low carbon heating and ventilation solutions in its Newry plant rather than continuing operations in both Newry and Dunleer.

"Glen Dimplex remains firmly committed to the energy transition and the Newry plant will benefit from investment as it scales to manufacture these low carbon solutions, including heat pumps."

"Regrettably, the proposed consolidation is expected to result in the loss of approximately 70 jobs in Dunleer and would be completed by October 2025. Management will work with employee representatives in Dunleer, trade unions and local training and support agencies to support colleagues through this change and to deliver appropriate outplacement and training supports.

"Following these developments and previously announced changes on the island of Ireland, Glen Dimplex remains committed to being a leading player in the transition to a more sustainable world."

While thankful that new roles may come to Dunleer, as a result of the relocation of the sales and distribution roles to the mid Louth town, Cllr Minogue shared her disappointment at the announcement of the job losses, at the facility known locally as the Chilton Factory.

Cllr Minogue said: "It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the closure of the Chilton Factory in Dunleer this coming October, resulting in the loss of over 70 jobs. This is a devastating blow to our local community and the surrounding areas.

"For many years, Chilton Factory has been a cornerstone of Dunleer’s economy. Its contributions to the local workforce, economy, and businesses can’t be overstated. The factory has provided stable employment, supported local suppliers, and played a vital role in the growth and development of our town.

"The impact of this closure will undoubtedly be felt far and wide. Families, businesses, and the community will face challenges in the wake of these job losses. It’s important that we come together during this difficult time to support those affected and find ways to help our town rebuild and recover."

"We extend our deepest sympathies to all those impacted by this news. We will continue to stand in solidarity with the workers and their families and hope for better opportunities in the future."