Cradley Print could face industrial action following the GPMUs balloting of members at the Black Country-based printer, and marketing director Aidan Kidson has left the firm.


GPMU national officer Owen Coop said 100-150 ballot papers had been sent out after a request for 50 redundancies (PrintWeek, 13 July). But joint managing director Chris Jordan categorically denied there would be 50 redundancies.


"By law we had to issue an HR1, which you have to do if over a period of time there are to be over 19 redundancies," said Jordan. He added that Kidson had received a better offer, but wouldnt say where from.


Coop said a combination of matters had forced the GPMUs hand, including a failure to put through the national increase this year.


One bright piece of news is that Cradley has secured contracts for two monthly titles. "We are making the necessary moves to ensure the long-term future of the business," said Jordan.