170 jobs to go as Great Barr insurance firm shuts

A total of 170 jobs will be axed after insurance firm Kwik-Fit Financial Services confirmed it will close its Great Barr premises to concentrate on its other base in Glasgow.

Bosses say they want to consolidate the firm's operation on to the Scotland site only. It is hoped some workers will be relocated.

The company has begun a 90-day consultation period with staff.

June Lynch, managing director of Kwik-Fit Financial Services, said: "This consultation period will allow us to consider a proposal to consolidate our business onto one site."

The business in Old Walsall Road, Great Barr, houses the firm's Express Insurance brand. Kwik-Fit Financial Services has said having two operating sites is not sustainable and reducing operating costs will leave it in a better position for future growth.

Workers will receive a series of options including potential relocation to Glasgow and some opportunities with parent company Ageas at Stoke and Gloucester. Recruitment firms will be invited to the Great Barr office to host open days for staff to explore other opportunities.

Councillor Derek Rowley, Sandwell's cabinet member for jobs and economy, said: "This is very sad news but, unfortunately, it's a reflection of the economic climate we're living in."