British pork processor Tulip plans to stop operations at its Tipton plant in the West Midlands, which will impact 642 jobs.

The company said that it will begin a consultation process with employee representatives about the future of the plant.

A Tulip spokesperson said: “Tipton has a long history and is well established in the local area with many long-serving employees, however, the site itself requires significant investment and redevelopment to cater for future requirements while its location places severe restrictions on any further development.

“The business is keen to retain the experience and skills of the Tipton team wher possible. Transfer opportunities to alternative Tulip sites will be explored thoroughly if the closure is confirmed and employees will be presented with a number of options as part of the consultation process.”

The pork processor said that it intends to move Tulip operations from Tipton to other facilities in the UK. It will explore various options for the plant as part of its operational review and business recovery plan.

UK-based trade unio Unite said that the news was devastating. It has called for urgent talks as the closure would put more than 600 jobs at risk.

Unite regional officer Rick Coyle said: “This is devastating for our members. We will be considering the serious implications of today’s announcement very closely.

“I will be seeking urgent talks with the management to see what can be done to save this site and also what redeployment opportunities there may be. I will be meeting our shop stewards for detailed discussions on Friday (6 March).

“Unite’s top priority will be the welfare of our members and their families at this difficult time. We will be giving them maximum support in the days and weeks ahead.”