US manufacturer 3M has confirmed the closure of its Swansea factory.

Following a consultation with employees it said the closure of what is s oldest plant outside the US, will result in the loss of 89 jobs.

Discussions began on July 8, when the company announced it had opened a 45-day consultation with employees over the potential closure of the factory.

3M said the Gorseinon site has experienced ongoing underutilisation and has been impacted by changes in the sector it serves, namely the personal care industry, the collision aftermarket and vehicle repair centres.

Managing director of 3M, north Europe region, Lars Hanseid said: “Alternative strategies have now been explored and it has been confirmed that 89 positions will be made redundant.”

Over the next 24 months, the Gorseinon site’s manufacturing operations will move to existing 3M facilities worldwide, including Bangor, Northern Ireland.

The company started as a small-scale mining venture in northern Minnesota, then named Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company – 3M.

Mr Hanseid continued: “I would like to express my sincere appreciation of our employees’ commitment and professionalism, not only through the consultation, but also as we now go through the period of transition.

“The company regrets the loss of any jobs, but we believe this move is the only way forward for the future of the business.”

A range of support services will be available for affected employees, including outplacement assistance and financial advice.