IN THE light of the K Shoes job cuts, the Gazette asked some of South Lakeland's major employers how they are faring in current trade conditions

Goodacre Carpets, Kendal employs 160

The Castle Mills firm came out of administration last year with support and financial backing from Mealbank Properties. Next week it launches a new product at Sizergh Castle, carpet made from Lake District Herdwick wool. Operations director David Poole said he did not have a crystal ball, but "so far things are progressing well". He described the K Shoes job losses as "appalling".

James Cropper plc, Burneside employs around 500

The specialist papermaker has come back from a loss, and saw pre-tax profits climb by 47 per cent to £1.1 million during the first half of last year. Group finance director John Denman said trading conditions remained "difficult" in all three divisions papermaking, converting and technical fibre products adding: "We are always working hard to ensure our profitability."

Heinz/Farleys, Kendal employs 225

The factory at Mint Bridge Road produces ready-to-feed milk, cereals and infant formula. Heinz Europe spokesman Michael Mullen said: "Kendal is an important factory in the Heinz portfolio and we look forward to continuing our successful operations in the area for the foreseeable future." The factory had no job openings at present for those workers leaving K Shoes, but that might change, he added.

January 17, 2003 10:00