Superyacht manufacturer Sunseeker has sought to reassure employees that it “highly values” their contributions, after the company announced a series of temporary layoffs affecting production staff in early 2025.
The move, prompted by what Sunseeker described as “cash flow challenges” linked to supply chain disruption, sparked criticism from the Unite Party and local MP Neil Duncan-Jordan, who described the timing as “obscene”. However, Sunseeker says it aims to “minimize” the impact on affected employees, and has pledged to review the layoffs on January 2.
The Dorset-based company, which employs around 2,000 staff, said: “Due to constraints in its supply chain that intensified during December, Sunseeker was forced to take the decision to implement temporary redundancies of a limited number of employees within its production operations. This decision is focused on Ensures long-term continuity of operations and does not reflect on employees’ performance or contributions.
Unite the Union called the move “scrooge-like” and “abhorrent.” However, Sunseeker says affected employees will receive statutory payouts or the option to use their paid leave entitlements. It also confirmed that continuity of employee service will be maintained, along with other non-monetary benefits.
Sunseeker changed ownership earlier this year when it was acquired by Orienta Capital Partners and Lionheart Capital for an undisclosed sum. Despite the temporary measure, the company insists it remains committed to supporting its workforce and will keep the situation under review.