Lexmark shuts Rosyth cartridge plant

Lexmark is to close its inkjet cartridge manufacturing facility at Rosyth in Scotland with the loss of 700 jobs.

The first 500 jobs will go in April and the rest when the factory is shut down towards the end of the year. Lexmark cited excess capacity and the high cost of manufacture as reasons for closure.

"We truly regret the loss of jobs in this community," said the plant's general manager Alan Speirs.

"While we do not have the ability to change the impact of technology or economics, we nevertheless recognise the challenges facing our employees and their families."

The Lexmark factory was opened 10 years ago and formed part of Scotland's 'Silicon Glen' IT business area.

Lexmark's recent financial results disappointed analysts after it cut profit expectations. The company said that a collapse in demand for printers and toner had hurt profits and further jobs cuts were expected.