A MARKET town is set for a jobs boost after a manufacturer announced plans to create more than 100 posts.

John Howard

A MARKET town is set for a jobs boost after a manufacturer announced plans to create more than 100 posts.

Concerns had been raised about the economy of Stowmarket after the closure of a number of shops in the town centre.

But now recruitment agency Adecco is looking to recruit candidates for a range of jobs in the factory operations of Bosch Lawn & Garden in the town.

The work will include basic production, forklift, warehouse, testers and team leaders, with opportunities to work flexible shifts.

Jean Henderson, head of human resources at Bosch Lawn & Garden, said: “Bosch a global company that has had a long history in the UK.

“During the current economic climate, we are pleased that we are able to provide further much-needed jobs to help support the local area”.

Adecco has announced the recruitment drive following a projected increase in demand from the factory as the firm continues to extend its product line.

Ruth Humes, branch manager for Adecco in Bury St Edmunds, said: “The company can offer great opportunities to its workers and has been a large employer in the local area for a number of years.

“The positions we are looking to fill will require changing shift patterns but this can be a very flexible form of working for some people allowing them to juggle their work/life commitments.

“In addition, if you feel you have the experience and drive to be a team leader, the opportunities are available for you to progress.”

Anne Whybrow, mayor and a county councillor for the community, said new was “terrific” for the town. “At a time when the economy is all doom and gloom, here is Stowmarket with a company investing in people,” she said.

“We hear of so many people every day losing their work and the Citizens Advice Bureau and job centre have been inundated with people coming in.

“If you have 100 extra people working on the Bosch site it has to be good for the town's economy as a whole.”

The current Stowmarket site has been producing lawnmowers since 1925, beginning with hand mowers and continuing to produce products across the range up to the modern day cordless mowers.

The factory has played a key role in providing jobs in the community for more than 80 years and currently employs about 400 local workers.

The factory began with the name Suffolk Iron Foundry in 1920 and most recently changed its name to Bosch Lawn and Garden following an acquisition in 1995.

To find out more about the positions available contact Adecco on 01449 676938 or 01284 732440.