'Major blow': Union reacts to closure of historic Glasgow firm

Unite the Union has said it is working hard to help employees after the announcement that Albion Automotives is to close and almost 100 jobs are to be lost.

We previously reported that the company will cease trading on October 4 after the sites longest running client failed to extend their contract.

READ MORE: Historic company to close with 'just under 100 jobs impacted'

The closure was confirmed in a statement from Albion’s parent company, US-based American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings (AAM) less than a year after they celebrated their 125th anniversary.

In a statement, they said: "American Axle & Manufacturing has announced that its manufacturing facility in Glasgow will cease operations on October 4, 2024.

“The plant in Scotstoun, known locally as Albion Automotive, will close due to the long-term business with its largest customer not being extended.

“Just under 100 jobs will be impacted by the plant closure. We would like to express our sincere appreciation for the loyalty and commitment to AAM from all the associates in Glasgow over the last 26 years.”

Parent company American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM) made the announcement (Image: Gordon Terris) Unite the Union said it has been aware of the situation that contracts at the plant were ending and that it will work hard to find alternative jobs for employees.

James O’Connell, Unite industrial officer, said: “Unite has been representing our membership at the Albion Automotive in advance of the plant’s proposed closure in October which the workforce had been aware of due to contracts with clients ending at the plant.

"The loss of around 100 jobs at the plant which has a 125-year history in Scotstoun is a major blow.

"Unite will continue to work hard to explore retraining opportunities and alternative job roles for our members because these highly skilled workers are essential to our local economy.”

Chris Cunningham, councillor for Garscadden and Scotstounhill, has also expressed his disappointment at the news saying his primary concern is for the employees and their families.

He said: "I greatly regret the closure of Albion Automotive. Obviously, my primary concern is for the workers and their families and it is to be hoped that their skills will soon find new employment for them. I hope that advice and support will be available to all staff over the coming weeks.

"The loss of the Albion name and its history is also to be regretted.  This company and its name was an integral part of the early days of automobiles in Scotland and indeed the wider UK.  Scotstoun and Glasgow will be the poorer for that loss."