Member Article

Up to 90 jobs to go at Huddersfield nursery chain Mamas & Papas

Huddersfield baby supplier Mamas & Papas is reportedly set to undergo a major restructure, axing up to 90 jobs.

The firm has also put proposals to the landlords of 60 of its UK stores to reduce costs through a CVA (a company voluntary arrangement) overseen by Deloitte.

In the year to March 31 2013, the group made a pre-tax profit of £340k, compared to last year’s £1.5 million loss and turnover rose 13% to £108.2 million.

This follows on from a major investment by BlueGem, who took a majority stake in the previously 100% family owned firm.

The firm employs 440 at its Huddersfield headquarters, with a further 956 are employed in its shops.

David Scacchetti, chairman of Mamas & Papas, said: “While our international and wholesale businesses are performing strongly, the UK retail environment is the toughest I’ve experienced in the 30 years since we founded Mamas & Papas and it has become clear that we need to take action if we are to maintain our proud position as a brand trusted by parents across the world.

“We believe the proposals announced today will create a platform to allow us to continue offering innovative, premium products to customers in the UK and internationally, both in stores and online.

“Alongside the investment from BlueGem, the strengthened leadership team and the support of our colleagues, we are confident we are taking the steps necessary to protect the Mamas & Papas brand and help it to achieve its potential in the future.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .