10


IN VIEW


REDUNDANCY FEARS AT TISSUE FIRM


“Our priority now is to work closely and openly with our colleagues and the local authorities as we go through this consultation.


“Our aim is to minimise job losses wherever possible, and we will fully support any colleagues impacted throughout the proposed transition.”


The group says it is also planning further investment in its Leyland and Leicester sites over the next five years. It will also continue its partnership as a patron to Blackburn and Darwen Youth Zone.


Navigator Tissue UK – which bought Blackburn- based Accrol in a £130m deal last year – looks set to make redundancies in the town.


in association with


It has revealed plans to consolidate its UK manufacturing operations, which includes potential changes to two of its four Blackburn sites. Navigator revealed in mid-August that it had entered a formal consultation phase with its employees.


Company bosses have not revealed how many redundancies there will be but say they are looking to retain as many roles as possible so job losses in Blackburn will be minimal. Navigator is not disclosing how many people it currently employs in Lancashire.


The proposals under discussion will see its rolls manufacturing operation, currently at Roman Road in the town, moved to Navigator sites in Leyland and a new, larger facility in Leicester. Its facial tissue plant in Blackburn will remain operational.


Simon Nelson, operations director at Navigator Tissue UK, said: “This move is about making sure we build a strong and resilient future for our UK business – one that continues to deliver for our customers and our communities.


“We have a long-standing connection with the Blackburn community and are incredibly proud of our heritage in the region.


Accrol was one of the leading tissue manufacturers in the UK at the time of the acquisition, producing toilet rolls, kitchen rolls and own-brand facial tissues for most of the country’s main retailers.


It had experienced consecutive years of growth, both organically and through its own acquisitions. António Redondo, Navigator’s chief executive, said at the time: “Accrol brings an outstanding business franchise, including an exceptional customer base, highly skilled employees and a solid track record of producing quality tissue products.”


Navigator Tissue UK is part of The Navigator Company, a Portuguese-listed global pulp and paper manufacturer. The group reported revenues of €2.088bn in its most recent financial year.


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ENTER NOW 5 December 2025


Deadline:


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MEETING MANUFACTURING CHALLENGES HEAD-ON IN EAST LANCASHIRE


East Lancashire’s manufacturing industry stands at an exciting but fascinating crossroads.


Financial pressures, global shifts in technology and the drive toward sustainable practices mean that every business, from aerospace to furniture manufacturing, must adapt.


Still, I remain positive. I see a region built to overcome – and with Burnley College right at the heart of it.


Financial pressures – rising costs, tightening margins – affect us all. Yet, it is precisely in times like these that innovation thrives. Advanced manufacturing methods and technology offer practical solutions to boost efficiency and reduce costs. At Burnley College, we’re committed to helping local businesses navigate these changes by ensuring our learners and partners have access to world- class equipment and expertise.


Additive manufacturing, once regarded as futuristic, is now within reach for our students


David Lord, head of construction and engineering at Burnley College


and regional businesses. Through investment in top-tier facilities, we open the door to wider use of cost-effective, cutting-edge production techniques. Whether it’s prototyping or full- scale manufacturing, our approach offers real savings and valuable opportunities.


Today’s manufacturing goes beyond output – it’s about responsibility and sustainability. Businesses embracing a carbon-sensitive strategy are ready to meet both regulatory demands and customer expectations. The


dlord@burnley.ac.uk


move toward sustainability in East Lancashire isn’t just necessary; it’s a path toward leadership. Our industries, from aerospace to automotive manufacturing, are rising to the challenge with energy and creativity.


At Burnley College, learners train on advanced machinery in workshops designed with industry at our side to match the standards they would expect in their factories. We focus on building a skilled workforce ready to innovate both now and in the future. Our support doesn’t end at the classroom door – we collaborate with businesses to deliver upskilling, bespoke training and practical support that push the entire sector forward.


East Lancashire is defined by its ingenuity, its strength and its pioneering industries. Burnley College draws inspiration from this community, guiding new talent and supporting experienced professionals alike to achieve cleaner, smarter, more efficient manufacturing.


Together, we can lead the way into a resilient and thriving future.


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