170 job losses at Brandon Hire

Wolseley's tool hire subsidary Brandon Hire has announced 170 jobs are to be cut.

A statement from Brandon Hire managing director Tim Smith said: “We have grown in size and profile in recent years and benefited from Wolseley’s investment in the business, following the merger of Brandon and Hire Center.

“Because of changes in market conditions – and because we are now better integrated with Wolseley UK and its other brands – it is necessary to streamline support services, as well as some branch-based and operational roles.

“While any job losses are regrettable, there is a need to adjust our business to the prevailing market conditions. We fully realise our responsibilities to all individuals affected by this restructure, and we will consult with them to ensure that they are dealt with in a fair and sensitive way.”

Brandon was bought by Wolseley in April 2006.