Press Release: Partnership launched to ease Ericsson blow

The Ericsson Partnership – formed to help limit the damage to the regional economy in the wake of the Swedish firm’s announcement that it will be shedding 700 skilled workers in the city – has had its first meeting.

The 30-strong group meeting was led by Dr Brian Woods-Scawen, chairman of the Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire Partnership, and immediately vowed to take action on four key areas.

Woods-Scawen, who chaired the successful Peugeot Partnership which was formed in the wake of the Ryton closure, said all relevant groups and agencies working together could have a significant benefit to those caught up in the Ansty decision.

The communications company, which only moved to the site six months ago, has welcomed the formation of the Ericsson Partnership and will meet representatives in the next few days.

Woods-Scawen said: “We have come together with a sense of shock and no-one expected this news. Everyone saw this investment as crucial to the future of our economy. But despite the news this week we believe in the future of Ansty as an international centre for research and as a driver of the regional economy.

“We are very conscious that there is a lot of uncertainty for 700 individuals and their families and we will be offering support and help to secure their futures.

“They are highly skilled people and we want them to remain here and build their futures here and we will work very hard to create that success.

“We have contacted Ericsson and they are positive about meeting us and do want to work with us in the months ahead.

“They do not expect anyone to leave the site until the middle of 2010 and that is to our advantage. The key to the success of the Peugeot Partnership was working together and making sure that we have clear objectives and that funding streams were used to meet those aims.

“That again has to apply for us to achieve tangible results.”

Several members of the partnership stressed that while the future of the employees was fundamental, the success of Ansty as a key commercial site was vital for the region.

Woods-Scawen added: “We are aware that Government are talking to Ericsson to see if they can alter the decision but while we hope that will bear fruit, we have to plan for the worst.

“But, despite the Ericsson announcement, Ansty remains a great location with fantastic links.

“As newer industries, such as medical technology, nano-technology and new materials grow, and all firms looks to operate in a low carbon economy, the need for research and development will increase.

“Ansty is perfect for that work and we will find investors and bring them here, and that work will progress with or without Ericsson.”

The meeting formed groups to looks at support and skills, future investment, business confidence and communication and is set to meet again to ensure integrated action is being taken.
 
Coventry City Council, Warwickshire County Council, Rugby Borough Council, Jobcentre Plus, the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, CSWP, Advantage West Midlands, Coventry University, Warwick University, local MPs and the University of Warwick Science Park were among those who attended the meeting.

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