‘A huge loss’: MP and councillors react to loss of 114 jobs as CF Booth enters administration
Local leaders have spoken out following the loss of more than 100 jobs at Rotherham-based metal recycling firm CF Booth.
Administrators recently confirmed that 114 workers were made redundant after the long-established company entered administration, bringing operations at its Rotherham site to a halt.
Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said she was “deeply concerned” about the future of the business and the impact on its workforce.
She said: “I am deeply concerned about what happens next for CF Booth - this is a well-established business that is critical in our supply chains.
“It has highly skilled workers who need certainty about their jobs.
“I can imagine how stressful the administration process must be with bills to pay and families to feed. Let me reassure them that I will do all I can to help secure their future.”
Councillor Ian Jones, who represents the Rotherham West ward where the business has long been based, said he was shocked by the redundancies and described CF Booth as part of the town’s identity.
He said: “The loss of a family business with such a well-known name and reputation, is a big loss for Rotherham and a massive personal loss for the employees, who have now lost their jobs , a lot with a very special skill set.
“Rotherham has a long-term relationship with the iron and steel industries going back centuries to the Walker family who first put Rotherham on the map in this business.
“CF Booth must have been one of the first “Green “ businesses in Rotherham recycling the same materials and supplying markets worldwide.
“When you talk to anyone about Rotherham the phrase “booth’s” or “Boothie’s” always made it in there somewhere , whether it was giving someone directions , talking about football, or recognising that this was one of only about four specialists who could dismantle and recycle railway rollingstock.
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CounJones also called on local organisations to step in and support those affected.
“I hope local businesses and authorities will recognise what has happened and offer help and advice to meet the needs of these workers at this very difficult time.”
Cllr Reed added: "This is deeply sad news from an iconic Rotherham company that had clearly run into difficulties. Our thoughts are with all the staff and their families who will be processing the news and concerned for their own futures.
“The council stands ready to assist and I'd urge anyone looking for training, careers advice or support to contact us."
Administrators are continuing to explore options for the future of the business while offering support to staff who have lost their jobs.
Founded in the 1920s, the family-run business grew from a small local scrap trader into one of the largest independently run metal recycling companies in Europe, employing generations of Rotherham families.
Alongside his role as a prominent metal businessman and former Rotherham United chairman, Ken Booth helped rescue the club from potential financial collapse in 1987 and remained in the role there until December 2004.
In later years, he became closely involved in bringing Millmoor, the club’s former home, back into use, supporting work to refurbish facilities, clear the site and improve the pitch for local teams.
CF Booth specialised in buying and processing metals like steel, copper and aluminium, supplying manufacturers and recyclers across the UK.