Isle of Harris Distillery plan to make job cuts as part of a restructuring strategy.
The Tarbert based distillery which produces the Hearach malt whisky alongside Harris Gin is one of the main private employers in Harris.
The company has not been immune to turbulence and a changing economic landscape affecting the whisky sector.
Staff are being offered voluntary redundancy in a bid to save money. The company plans to impose compulsory redundancies if insufficient numbers come forward.
Downsizing the workforce will see production of spirits reduced at the plant, moving from two shifts a day down to one.
Managing director Simon Erlanger said: “Much like our colleagues in the wider spirits industry, we are facing challenging headwinds which have led to some incredibly difficult decisions.
“Following a number of cost-cutting measures, voluntary redundancy is being offered
to staff in the first instance, with compulsory to follow thereafter if we do not
fulfil our cost reduction target.”
He added: “It is deeply regrettable we find ourselves in this situation and would like to take the opportunity to thank our entire team, particularly those affected by the changes, for their dedication and contribution to the business.”
The distillery was shut over Tuesday at short notice. Visitors who had booked tours were to be offered an alternate date or a full refund. The premises will reopen at the later time of 11am today.
Workforce redundancies planned at Harris distillery
30 April 2025
