Forty Positions Under Threat at Yorkshire Glass Manufacturing Plants
The GMB Union has announced that 40 jobs at Verallia's glass factories in Knottingley and Leeds are at risk of redundancy, with formal consultation proceedings now underway. This development comes as the union points to significant pressures from the Government's Glass Packaging Tax and other rising operational costs.
Union Blames Environmental Tax and Insufficient Government Support
According to the GMB, the potential job losses are directly linked to what they describe as inadequate Governmental backing on new environmental measures. The Glass Packaging Tax, introduced in April 2025 as part of the Extended Producer Responsibility scheme, requires producers to cover the costs of collection, recycling, and disposal for their packaging materials.
Charges under this tax are calculated based on the weight and recyclability of materials, meaning heavier substances like glass face substantially higher fees compared to lighter alternatives. This has placed considerable financial strain on glass manufacturers.
Devastating Impact on Industry and Community
Darran Travis, GMB regional organiser, expressed deep concern over the situation. "This is devastating news for the industry and the local community," he stated. "Glass manufacturing is not operating on a level playing field. With the Glass Packaging Tax, rising energy costs, and higher employer contributions, we warned the Government jobs would go."
Travis further emphasized the severity of the issue, adding, "If these policies are not reversed, there is no future for glass bottle manufacturing in the UK. GMB is calling for urgent Government intervention to prevent further decline across the glass manufacturing sector."
Government Defends Environmental Policy
In response, a spokesperson from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs defended the Extended Producer Responsibility scheme. "Extended Producer Responsibility moves the cost of dealing with waste away from taxpayers, generating over £1 billion annually," the spokesperson said. "These changes are backing British business with major investment and creating 25,000 jobs. We continue to work closely with the glass industry on this programme."
Despite this assurance, the union remains skeptical about the immediate impact on jobs. Verallia has been approached for comment regarding the ongoing consultations and the specific details of the workforce reductions at their Knottingley and Leeds facilities.
The situation highlights a broader tension between environmental initiatives and industrial sustainability, with local communities in West Yorkshire facing potential economic repercussions as the glass manufacturing sector navigates these challenging policies.
