Warehouse workers face losing jobs as roles set to move to base 450 miles away

Shocked staff at Indigo Lighthouse Solutions Europe Limited were recently informed by letter that their employment is being transferred to Adaro Optics in Kent.

The Glasgow Times understands that 24 employees based at the Westway Distribution Centre in Renfrew now face the axe on December 31 if they don’t agree to the new terms.

The decision comes after the firm, who previously had an office in Glasgow’s Bath Street, saw a major contract with Boots Opticians come to an end.

One source said: “People are worried sick about how they are going to pay their bills in the New Year.  We all have homes, family ties and responsibilities, so who on earth is going to want to work in Kent. It’s a total slap in the face to loyal staff, some of whom have worked for the company for 20 years packaging contact lenses.

“We’ve been told to continue to work until December 31 and then the transfer will take place on January 1, which leaves us with next to no time to look for employment elsewhere.

“Christmas is just around the corner and people are worried about money already without having this kind of uncertainty hanging over them. We feel really let down that this is happening so out of the blue – it’s not like they are asking us to move around the corner, they are moving the warehouse jobs to another country.”

Indigo Lighthouse Solutions (Image: Gordon Terris) A letter sent to staff and shared with the Glasgow Times says that the company will now enter a consultation process with those at risk.

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It states: “As our contract with Boots Opticians comes to an end on December 31, the transfer is set to take place on January 1.

“As a result of the provision change, it is believed that 24 employees of Indigo Lighthouse Solutions (Europe) based at Westway in Renfrew, who form part of the organised grouping whose principal purpose is warehousing activities on behalf of BOPS, will transfer to Adaro Optics in Kent.

“Under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (TUPE), all employees who may be affected by the transfer are entitled to be informed and consulted about the plan.”

It’s understood there is currently no union representation within the warehouse. As a result, the company has invited staff to nominate someone to engage in talks with bosses.

The letter continues: “Once appointed, the employee representative will serve until the end of the consultation process.”

Our source added: “Staff just feel badly let down and totally disgusted. Loyal people are facing a miserable Christmas and will now be forced to watch every penny. It really is shameful and heartless given the time of year, and we can only hope that the company listen to our concerns over the next week or so.”

Indigo Lighthouse Solutions Europe Limited have been approached for comment.