80 jobs lost as pie firm closes

Almost 80 jobs will be shed at a Dudley pie maker which today announced its factory will close in June.

Bosses at Apetito have blamed Jamie Oliver’s healthy eating revolution for the dip in demand for pies and pasties.

Chief executive, Paul Freeston, said the decision to make 77 staff redundant at its Peartree Lane site had not been taken lightly.

Bosses announced last month the factory was making losses despite investment. Today they confirmed the decision to close had been made.

“Our workers have been loyal and committed to the company and we are in no doubt as to the disappointment and concern this decision will cause,” said Mr Freeston.

“It is with great sadness that we have had to take this decision based on the fact that despite substantial investment into the factory over the past five years we cannot sustain the continuing losses any longer.”

The firm which has its headquarters in Wiltshire says it has explored all viable options.

A letter from workers, who who wished to remain anonymous, said: “Staff are shocked by the sudden announcement.

“They feel the factory is an efficient, well-run site and can be profitable.”