Up to 250 Sunseeker Employees Face Temporary Layoffs Ahead of New Year
Luxury yacht manufacturer Sunseeker has announced temporary layoffs impacting between 100 and 250 staff members, just days before Christmas. While no employees have lost their jobs, those affected will not return to work until January 2 or 3.
The company cited supply chain disruptions, which worsened during December, as the reason for the decision. Sunseeker clarified that staff impacted by the layoffs would either receive statutory payment for the initial days or be offered the option to use their paid holiday entitlement.
A Sunseeker spokesperson stated:
“Although the forward order book remains strong, this decision is aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of operations and does not reflect on employee performance or contributions. Sunseeker values the dedication of its team and is committed to supporting affected staff.”
Employees in the production operations at New Quay Road were informed of the decision after receiving Christmas well-wishes from management.
Union Criticism
The move has drawn sharp criticism from Unite, the workers’ union. Regional officer Janet Wall condemned the decision as “Scrooge-like behaviour,” arguing it reflects poorly on Sunseeker, a company that produces yachts worth millions for the ultra-wealthy.
Wall stated:
“Announcing layoffs the week before Christmas with little notice or pay is abhorrent. Unite will support our members and fight to reverse this decision. The local community deserves to know how Sunseeker treats its workforce.”
Unite also claimed the layoffs primarily affect staff with less than two years of service.
Efforts to Minimise Impact
Sunseeker has emphasised its commitment to preserving employee benefits and continuity of service during this period. The company plans to review the situation on January 2 and aims to restore full operations as soon as possible.
Recent Challenges
The temporary layoffs come during a turbulent year for Sunseeker. Despite revenues exceeding £260 million, the company faced a £350,000 fine in November for failing to properly document timber imports, breaching due diligence requirements.
In addition, Sunseeker was acquired earlier this year by Miami-based Lionheart Capital and Italy’s Orienta Capital Partners. Chief Executive Andrea Frabetti recently highlighted the importance of the workforce in crafting the company’s luxury yachts, noting that such craftsmanship cannot be replaced by robotics.
The decision to temporarily lay off staff has sparked local and national debate, raising questions about the balance between business sustainability and employee welfare during challenging times.
