150 jobs are at risk at Kilkenny-based Tirlán as it has announced a voluntary redundancy scheme across the company.
The dairy co-op confirmed this as it launches a “cost reduction programme” to “enhance its long-term competitiveness”.
“Following a thorough review process, the programme aims to achieve cost savings throughout the business,” Tirlán said.
“A combination of factors requires the co-op to proactively manage its cost base. These include rising costs in areas such as energy, interest rates, wages and environmental compliance as well as a decline in milk supply volumes.
“In order to secure cost savings, Tirlán has made the difficult but necessary decision to offer a voluntary redundancy scheme across the organisation. It is expected that approximately 150 roles may be impacted.”
With over 5,000 milk suppliers, Tirlán confirmed that milk processing capabilities will remain unchanged – and it will “retain the ability to increase milk processing capacity if there are changes in milk supply dynamics”.
“The cost savings achieved through this programme will position Tirlán strongly against future challenges and allow continued focus on product innovation and growth in value-added products,” the company added.
Tirlán has over 2,300 employees.
In 2023, it had a total turnover of €2.53bn, a 17% decrease compared to 2022, as prices fell from record highs as a result of a decline in global dairy markets.
Operating profits were €68.3m, a reduction of 5% year-on-year, as a result of a number of factors including inflationary pressures and the commitment of the organisation to supporting farmers through a difficult period, the company said.