Luxury yacht manufacturer Sunseeker has sought to reassure employees that it “greatly values” their contributions after the company announced a series of temporary layoffs in early 2025 that affected production staff.
The move, prompted by what Sunseeker describes as “cash-flow challenges” linked to supply chain disruption, has drawn criticism from Unite the Union and local MP Neil Duncan-Jordan, who called the timing “outrageous”. However, Sunseeker says it wants to “minimize” the impact on affected employees and promises a review of the layoffs on January 2.
In a statement, the Dorset-based company, which employs around 2,000 staff, said: “Due to supply chain constraints which increased in December, Sunseeker has had to make the decision to implement temporary redundancies for a limited number of employees within the business . production operations. This decision is aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of the business and will not impact employee performance or contributions.”
Unite the Union described the move as “Scrooge-like” and “abhorrent”. However, Sunseeker says affected employees will receive statutory benefits or be given the opportunity to use their paid holiday entitlements. It also confirmed that continuity of staff services will be maintained, in addition to other non-monetary benefits.
Sunseeker changed hands earlier this year when it was acquired by Orienta Capital Partners and Lionheart Capital for an undisclosed amount. Despite the temporary measure, the company remains committed to supporting its workforce and will monitor the situation.