Some 246 staff across the firm’s two sites in Bath and Blantyre, near Glasgow, will be affected by the decision, although they will be able to apply for around 40 jobs to be created in CPI’s other divisions.

The firm’s site in Blantyre employs 47 staff, while 199 workers are employed in Bath.

The firm blamed competition from low-cost markets in the Far East and Eastern Europe for the losses made at Bath Press. It has lost £20m since 2002 and is forecast to lose a further £2m this year.

In a statement, Ralph Bell, divisional general manager for parent business CPI, said: “Market forces, including the export of work to central Europe and the Far East, have driven down both prices and sales.

“Despite the best efforts of the management and entire workforce at Bath Press, and substantial support and investment from the parent business, CPI, it has proved impossible to restore a viable business.

“The company is committed to assisting employees as much as possible and is prepared to offer assistance with job search, interview skills, CV preparation etc. Counsellors will be on site to fulfil this.”

Trade union Unite, formerly Amicus, reacted with anger to the announcement. National officer Ann Field said: “The union will be demanding that the company takes a good look at alternatives to closure in order to protect these jobs.

“Book production in the UK should be supported by printing companies and publishers as books are one of the nation’s most successful industries and prized assets.

“This announcement is an appalling blow to the workers, their families, the Bath and Blantyre communities and the UK book industry. It came without warning from the French-owned multinational.”

Talks between the union and the firm will begin next week.

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Image courtesy of Bath Chronicle