PMP Print closes Hawthorn plant

PMP Print, a wholly owned subsidiary of PMP Limited, announced the closure of its Hawthorn, Victoria print production facility, effective immediately. According to Craig Amos, PMP Print Director of Operations, the long expected closure follows a decline in the Hawthorn business with it becoming increasingly uncompetitive.

"While the company regrets the need for redundancies, Hawthorn simply doesn't have the customer base or technology to remain a viable business. This situation has progressively worsened in recent times. Hawthorn is now an unsustainable business - hence our decision to cease production immediately," he said.

Amos said the closure was not driven by the strategic review currently being conducted by the PMP Group. The review by Bain International was scheduled for presentation this month but is now postponed until July, giving David Kirk, the new managing director, time to make his own assessment of the state of the company.

"This closure is the result of a lengthy process in which we have explored all other possible options for the Hawthorn business. It is a standalone decision relating to commercial and technological issues unique to this site. PMP Print's business as a whole remains solid and profitable," said Amos.

A total of 87 operational, administrative and support staff based at the Hawthorn plant have been informed of the decision. The company said that all the affected staff would receive redundancy packages, professional outplacement assistance and professional financial planning advice.

"We will work hard to support all employees in making a successful transition from the company," said Amos.

The closure comes almost a year to the day PMP shutdown its Moorabbin printing plant, consolidating much of the work to Clayton..