UK: Energy Costs Close Glass Factory

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The company said the plant, in the Pallion area of the city, lost £760,000 in 2006 alone.



A spokesman said talks with union officials had begun and the factory was due to close in September.



A company statement said: "This plant has not managed to overcome some economic difficulties.



'Adverse situation'



"The cost of power supplies in the UK has doubled over the last four years and the cost of raw materials is much higher than on the European continent.



"The production capacity is not sufficiently exploited.



"This has meant structural losses over several years, with no sign of an upturn, in spite of the full commitment of the staff to the productivity efforts."



Francisco Azcona, general manager of ARC, added: "The decision is based solely on the continuing adverse situation in our plant and in no way reflects on the performance of the employees.