Princes Group Statement COVID-19 virus 15th May 2020 Following the Prime Minister’s Address on Sunday 10th May 2020, I wanted to personally reassure our UK colleagues and customers that for us as a business, nothing has changed – in line with the continued government advice, all office and manufacturing site based colleagues who are able to work from home, are doing so and have adapted well to this new way of working. With regards to our manufacturing sites, we’re happy to know that the UK government has committed to making testing available for our key workers, which we have communicated and many of our colleagues have registered for tests, either at drive through centers or via home testing kits. So to re-iterate, our stance has not changed and we remain committed to ensuring the safety of our colleagues across the Group as our first priority. Current measures:
Social distancing – Social distancing practices are being rigorously observed at all sites. Canteens and communal areas are either closed or being operated in line with government advice. I am thankful to all colleagues at sites for their diligence in observing these requirements and adapting to new ways of working Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Our PPE supplies remain in overall good order. We are monitoring this very closely and securing additional supplies as required. Princes Industrie Alimentari (PIA) - Our Italian operation based in the southern region of Puglia is still operating effectively but remains closed to all visitors and rigorous measures are in place to prevent the spread of infection, including social distancing. All non-essential activities have ceased and all colleagues are following measures required by the Italian government. Princes’ European offices – Colleagues from our offices in Rotterdam, Paris and Warsaw are all effectively working from home. They are observing all government guidelines and being encouraged to maintain social distancing, to avoid public transport where possible and refrain from all travel. Video calling and telephone conferences are being used to stay in touch with customers, each other and across the Group. Princes Tuna Mauritius (PTM) – Both PTM sites are operating at around 80% of capacity due to reduced staffing levels and with all colleagues holding government approved work permits. The Mauritian government has rapidly enacted a plan to test migrant workers and we are pleased to confirm that all relevant colleagues at PTM have tested negative.
You can find further information at our COVID19 microsite called ‘Stronger Together’. We will of course continue to keep you updated with news, as the situation continues to evolve. A huge thank you as ever, goes out to our Princes Group and all #HiddenHeroes, who are continually rising to the challenge on a daily basis! Cameron Mackintosh Managing Director