Hoya closes London lab

Hoya is closing its London lab and moving all its lens manufacturing operations to Wrexham.

A company statement said Wrexham had undergone huge investment in the last two years and the move would provide customers with a more efficient and competitive service. From July 20 all operation from the Southwark lab would be relocated to Wrexham.

A spokeswoman said a total of 19 staff would be affected although not all were full-time workers. 'It's not something we are enjoying,' she said. Hoya is going through the legal process and it is hoped some of the staff could be retained.

'Hoya is undertaking a consultation process within the London base and is hoping to relocate London staff to the Wrexham facility in order to make further use of the skills of these highly experienced employees,' said the statement.