100 jobs ‘at risk’ following Silberline site closure
Thursday 11 April 2024
Local MSP Jenny Gilruth has voiced her concerns about the planned closure of Silberline in Leven – putting 100 local jobs at risk.
Silberline manufactures pigments and coatings for industrial use worldwide and was recently bought over by its German competitor Eckart in January.
It was announced to employees on Tuesday that new German owners, Eckart, intended to wind down production at Leven and close the site by 2025 with the future uncertain for its 100 employees.
Commenting, Jenny Gilruth MSP said:
“Silberline has operated in Leven for 50 years since opening back in 1974. The site has been a vital source of local employment and innovation ever since for generations of workers and their families. I know this news will come as a bitter blow for those potentially affected.
“I am seeking an urgent meeting with Silberline management to urge Eckart to reconsider this decision and to explore alternative options for its 100 employees. I have also written to the Economy Secretary urging the Scottish Government to engage directly with Eckart in a bid to save these vital local jobs.
“The closure of Silberline would be devastating for the local community, just weeks away from Leven’s Railway returning for the first time in half a century. These skilled jobs are absolutely vital to my constituency and I will do all that I can to support the workers affected.”
