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North Wales factory closes, affecting 200 jobs

Kimberly-Clark's plant in Flint has closed, citing compliance with a new UK plastics ban.

August 1, 2025 at 12:43 PM

North Wales factory where 200 staff worked has closed

The shutdown reflects significant changes in regulations regarding plastic use.

Closure of North Wales factory displaces 200 workers

A factory in North Wales, which employed about 200 workers, has shut down. Kimberly-Clark announced that the closure comes in response to the UK government's decision to ban the sale of plastic-containing baby wipes by mid-2026. The Flint site cannot adapt its operations in time for this regulation, leading to its immediate closure this week. The shutdown also impacts an additional 100 jobs in the local supply chain. Unite the union expressed solidarity with the affected workers, noting that most have found new employment despite the challenges.

Key Takeaways

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200 jobs lost due to factory closure in North Wales.

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Closure linked to UK government's plastic ban regulation.

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Kimberly-Clark unable to reconfigure plant in time.

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Unite union provides support and solidarity to displaced workers.

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95% of employees have reportedly found new jobs.

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Local supply chain also affected by the factory's shutdown.

"After decades of dedication, the Kimberly-Clark site in Flint closes its doors for the final time today."

Unite the union highlights the long history and impact of the plant on the community.

"The dignity and solidarity our members have shown has been phenomenal."

This quote showcases the resilience of workers in the face of adversity.

"95% of the employees have been able to secure alternative employment."

The union notes the success rate of workers finding new jobs despite the factory's closure.

The closure of the Flint factory highlights the impact of environmental regulations on local employment. While the push towards reducing plastic use is essential for sustainability, it raises questions about the support available for workers displaced by such legislative changes. The fact that 95% of employees have secured alternative jobs may offer some hope, but it also emphasizes the urgent need for proactive measures to support transitions in communities reliant on industries facing regulatory shifts. Such disruptions underline a broader trend that may ripple through similar industries across the UK.