New Zealand: Fletcher Building will close its Christchurch insulation plant, as it consolidates its Tasman Insulations operations in a ‘highly competitive market.’ The proposal would see 29 Christchurch factory workers lose their jobs manufacturing Pink Batts insulation, while its Auckland factory will become a round-the-clock operation. Current Christchurch-based customer service, sales and warehousing roles will be unaffected, with two new jobs created, while nine further positions at the Auckland plant will be offered.
"Consolidation is in the best interest of our people and our customers," said Tim Richards, chief executive of building products. "We are operating in a highly competitive market, impacted by an increase in volume of imported product and a general reduction in demand for insulation following changes to EECA's home insulation programme in 2013."
