Ulster Weaver closes two plants

The Northern Ireland textile company Ulster Weavers will close two of its four production plants, resulting in a loss of almost 80 jobs. The restructuring plan for the company will cause 38 jobs to go when the Armagh factory shuts, and another 39 jobcuts at the closing of the plant at Castlewellan in County Down. More jobs will be lost at the company's head office near Banbridge in County Down.

According to managing director Declan Gormley, tough competition from low-cost manufacturers as well as increasing costs in Northern Ireland are at the root of the decision to close the plants. Ulster Weavers produce Irish Linen products for retailers such as Marks & Spencer. The company will continue to employ over 150 people in the province.