Production Changes at Bluescope’s Western Port Plan

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Screen shot 2013 01 14 at 5.30.21 PM
Screen shot 2013 01 14 at 5.30.21 PM

BlueScope announced yesterday its intention to reconfigure its Australian cold rolling, metal coated and painted steel production. The change will result in reduced production levels at its Western Port facility and provide significant cost savings.

Image: http://www.bluescopesteel.com
Image: http://www.bluescopesteel.com

Announcing the changes, BlueScope Australia and New Zealand, Chief Executive, Mr Mark Vassella, said “Whilst domestic coated steel demand has not materially declined, this is part of our strategy to continually find better ways to do business and remain a cost effective producer. Regrettably, this change will mean a reduction in the number of employees we require to operate our lines at Western Port, with around 110 employees and 60 contractors expected to leave the business over the coming months.

“We will keep all currently operating lines and assets open at Western Port, to provide flexibility and allow for additional throughput when demand improves. We expect the new production configuration to commence around mid-March 2013.”

BluesScope revealed the cost to implement the change is estimated to be around $17 million, which should  be recovered within one year through ongoing improvements to the operating cost base.

Adertisement

“We will now enter a consultation phase with employees and with union representatives to best manage the transition. To assist employees in affected areas, a range of flexible options will be provided, including: the offer of voluntary redundancy; a job substitution process; and Outplacement Services through a dedicated Job Centre.

“We expect little or no impact to existing supply arrangements for our domestic customers. We will continue to produce the same portfolio of products and retain the capability to meet current and future demand. We remain committed to serving our customer partners with quality Australian made products and will be progressing investment at the Western Port facility to bring to the market our exciting next generation ZINCALUME® steel products during this year,” said Mr Vassella.