Boots mulls over factory U-turn

Boots is considering an about-turn on the closure of its factory in Airdrie, following pressure from shopworkers union Usdaw.

The health and beauty retailer announced in February that it would close the site by the end of next year, resulting in 1,000 job losses.

But following lobbying from Usdaw, Boots has agreed to allow an independent consultant to assess the closure plans and suggest an alternative.

Usdaw Scottish divisional officer Frank Whitelaw is leading the campaign.

In Usdaw's magazine, Arena, he said: 'The consultation process has started and we intend to make full use of it. We want to overturn the closure decision and keep these vital manufacturing jobs in Scotland.'