Ferguson Marine announces workforce adjustments to manage transition ahead of new vessel builds
Ferguson Marine has today announced the commencement of a voluntary redundancy programme as it manages the transition between completing its current order book and starting work on a new phase of shipbuilding contracts.
As the shipyard moves into the final outfitting and commissioning phases of MV Glen Rosa ahead of her Q4 2026 delivery, the workload is naturally reducing. To ensure the business remains competitive, efficient, and financially sustainable during this transitional phase, Ferguson Marine has opened formal consultations expected to see up to 70 employees depart through a voluntary process.
In March 2026, the Scottish Government announced its intention to provide a strategic direct award to Ferguson Marine for four new vessels: two ferries for Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) under the Small Vessel Replacement Programme and a Marine Protection Vessel (MPV), a Marine Research Vessel (MRV). Due diligence on this direct award is currently underway, with today’s proposed changes designed to address the size of the business and align skills across the yard, so it is fully prepared to commence work as soon as the contracts are finalised.
Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine, said: “Our immediate focus remains the safe, high-quality handover of Glen Rosa in Q4 2026. However, as the vessel nears completion, we face an inevitable gap in workload while we work with the Scottish Government to make the relevant preparations to enable us to proceed with contract negotiations.
“Shipbuilding capability relies on continuity and while changes of this nature are difficult, taking proactive action now ensures we protect the long-term viability of the yard and remain lean, modern, and ready to cut steel on the new fleet as quickly as possible.
“We take our responsibility to our workforce and community incredibly seriously. By offering a voluntary redundancy path, we want to support team members who have given so much to shipbuilding on the Clyde as they consider their next steps. At the same time, we are doing everything in our power to ensure the yard is structured to offer secure, long-term careers once the new build programme gets underway.”
Ferguson Marine confirmed that the consultation process will have no impact on the remaining work or delivery schedule for MV Glen Rosa. A phased transition plan is in place to maintain strict quality and safety standards across all active projects.
