Factory closure: Shock as 129 jobs set to go

The area is still reeling this morning from the shocking news that car part manufacturing firm, Stadco, is planning to close its Llanfyllin operation with the loss of 129 jobs.

Previously known as Saltofix, the firm has been a local success story for decades and has invested heavily in its facility.

But the company’s current owners, Magna International, propose that a restructure of their UK operations would see the closure of the Llanfyllin base.

Montgomeryshire’s Welsh Government member Russell George, said the news was “devastating” for the area with no forewarning given, while the union, Unite, said it had come as a “complete shock”.

“This news has come out of nowhere and has caused immense distress to the workforce," Unite's regional officer David Griffiths, told the BBC.

“Stadco are one of the largest manufacturing employers in Powys and an award-winning manufacturer.

“This planned closure would be an enormous blow to the economy of mid Wales and would be devastating for the workers and their families.”