New Zealand: Holcim Westport works close

The closure of Holcim’s Westport cement works next month will result in a loss of jobs and profits for Westport Harbour Ltd (WHL). Holcim is Westport’s main customer, with its cement shipping generating over 80 per cent of WHL's revenue.

WHL is a subsidiary of Buller Holdings Ltd (BHL). BHL chief executive Stephen Lowe said seven people would lose their jobs, including five dredge crew and to engineers. They will ensure the dredge and tug remains operational so that it can be used immediately should there be any new trade opportunities.

WHL recorded a NZ$332,000 (US$223,760) profit last year, but it is forecasting an operating loss of NZ$1.9m (US$1.28m) next year.