Cumbernauld firm has brand new base

Management at OKI Printing Solutions have confirmed that they will base their operation in Westfield from March 2014.

The announcement has quashed fears that the Japanese-based business might quit Cumbernauld, in a year which has not proved to be a high point for the firm. In April, the firm announced it would be effectively halving its staff by making 175 redundancies.

Management itself described the move as ‘‘a significant blow’’ but would seem to have ended the year on a more positive note, with the choice of the new location.

It is the former Patak’s factory, which itself was the scene of a pre-Christmas jobs blow two years ago when 108 employees were laid off.

An OKI spokesman confirmed: “This demonstrates the company’s continued investment and the tangible commitment to the local community. Our existing site is leased and the purchase of a new site is a very positive decision. “We are in the process of refurbishing the facilities to meet the needs of the business and the employees and have ensured that staff have been kept informed of these developments.

“The reaction from staff has been extremely positive and they have welcomed the news,’’ he added.

Scottish Nationalist MSP Jamie Hepburn said: “It was disappointing when they announced a sizeable number of job losses.

‘‘If this is an indication that they are committed to staying in Cumbernauld that has to be welcomed.’’

Labour MP Gregg McClymont said: “I hope this move to a smaller more affordable site means local jobs are secure in the long term.’’