The Co-operative Group has confirmed that they are hoping to sell their farming operation in Perthshire as part of a strategic review of all its businesses. The Scottish Conservatives has received written confirmation that the Co-op is to sell its Blairgowrie farm.
Last month local MSP Murdo Fraser raised concerns after the Co-op announced its biggest ever financial loss.
The Co-operative stated that they are hoping that the farm business ‘will be sold as a single business and as an ongoing concern’ and that they are hoping to transfer employment contracts to new owners. Co-operative farms employ 84 people across Scotland.
Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Like many in Perthshire, I was worried when I heard of the Co-op’s plans to sell off their farming operation. The Co-operative has been farming in Blairgowrie for over 50 years and have been a valued local employer helping sustain attractive careers in farming.
“By selling the business as an on-going concern, farms will still operate as normal which will hopefully secure the employment of all 84 Scottish Co-operative farm workers during the interim period.
“In these circumstances, the first priority must always be the employees whose jobs are under threat. The coming months will be a worrying period for them but it is encouraging to hear that the Co-op are hoping to transfer current employment contracts to any potential buyer. This will hopefully safeguard these jobs in the short-term and provide some comfort for households living with uncertainty.”