70 jobs cut after Armagh bakery closure

70 jobs are set to go in Armagh with the closure of a bakery

Linwoods says it comes in response to "a significant and long-term decline in market demand".

The company has 140 employees in Northern Ireland across two sites in County Armagh.

SDLP MLA Justin McNulty said it was a devastating blow

"Today’s announcement by Linwood’s is a devastating blow to this community and indeed for the Woods Family. The Linwood’s business has been a key employer in the Madden and Armagh community for generations and our thoughts are with all those who face redundancy this evening.

“I am to meet with the Management Team in Linwood’s in the coming days on the issue and I understand that the company have stressed that every effort has been made to secure the future of this part of their business. Unfortunately, with changing consumer trends and an ever more competitive market they could not continue as they were.’

“In recent years the company has diversified into new streams, including the Health Food market and I hope that in the years ahead we will see that end of their business continue to grow and flourish.’

“For today however, our thoughts are with those who are set to lose their jobs. Every effort must be made by the Department of the Economy, local Enterprise Agencies and the Council to support those impacted in the weeks and months ahead."