LONDON (ShareCast) - (Sharecast News) - Convenience food company Greencore said on Friday that it will temporarily halt production at its Northampton facility at the end of the day due to an outbreak of Covid-19 at the site and in the area.
Greencore said the decision - which has been taken as part of the region's efforts to reduce the spread of the virus - will allow all remaining colleagues at the factory to self-isolate as a precautionary measure.

Some production has been moved from Northampton to other sites within the company's network and Greencore said it's working with the affected customer to help mitigate any production shortfall.

"Greencore has been in constant contact with PHE East Midlands, Northamptonshire County Council, Northampton Borough Council and other government bodies, who have been hugely understanding and supportive of the group's response," it said. "The group will continue to work closely with them in order to bring the site back safely into production as soon as possible, as colleagues who are self-isolating begin to return."

The closure is expected to have only a modest impact on adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation in FY20 and Greencore said the site will return to a "substantial level" of production within 14 days.

News of a Covid outbreak at a site in Northampton that makes sandwiches for Marks & Spencer first emerged on 13 August. Greencore confirmed at the time that it had decided to start testing all staff at the site following a rise in the number of virus cases in the area.

At 1315 BST, the shares were down 4.2% at 120.70p.

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