74 Glasgow jobs at risk as Co-op plans to close its Shieldhall factory

The Co-op Funeralcare coffin factory in Shieldhall, Glasgow, is set to close, with all operations relocating to Merseyside, with the proposed closure expected to conclude by the end of November if the decision is not reversed.

Around 74 jobs are expected to be lost.

Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, said: "It’s disgraceful that the Co-op has chosen to close its factory when other viable options remain on the table, including a new-built factory in Glasgow."

Unite has strongly condemned the decision, pointing out that Funeralcare remains a growing and profitable area of the Co-op Group’s business.

The union argues that investing in a new, purpose-built facility in Glasgow would further boost its revenue.

Co-op’s profit before tax rose to £116 million in 2025.

Operating profit reached £6 million and Funeralcare reported a 10 per cent rise in pre-need funeral plan sales volumes.

Alison MacLean, Unite’s regional coordinating officer, said: "Co-op Funeralcare is a growing and profitable side of the business.

"The Co-op is investing significant money on a new site therefore why is it not doing this in Glasgow?"

“This is a significant employer in an area with high levels of social deprivation.”

She said: "The Co-op can’t dodge its responsibility to these workers.

"Unite will leave no stone unturned in order to get the Co-op to reconsider this needless decision."

A spokesperson from Co-op Funeralcare said: “After a strategic review, we are proposing to close our current coffin factory in Glasgow, and open a new factory in North West England. 

“This would allow us to introduce the most up-to-date manufacturing equipment and help support the growth and innovation of our Funeralcare business, whilst ensuring we are able to continue to provide the highest standards of care and service for bereaved families and their loved ones.   

“This proposal also means we will be more centrally positioned to operate more efficiently as a business which serves across England, Scotland and Wales. 

 “We fully recognise the contribution of our colleagues at our coffin factory and understand the concern and uncertainty that this proposal will cause, and we will provide full support to those colleagues impacted. However, we have needed to balance this proposal against the current and future needs of our members and clients, and we believe this proposed change will help deliver a more sustainable Co-op Funeralcare.”