141 employees of cigarette firm to be sacked in Swabi, Charsadda

PESHAWAR: Citing illicit cigarette trade in the country, the Philip Morris (Pakistan) Limited on Sunday announced that 141 of its employees were being laid off from its leaf purchasing and processing operations.
The employees facing the axe are employed in the company’s operations in Swabi and Charsadda, two major tobacco growing districts in the country.A press release issued by the company said the decision was taken as a result of the unprecedented rise in Pakistan’s illicit cigarette trade which has seriously impacted legal tobacco sales. “This reduction in legitimate sales has led to a decline in the company’s leaf purchasing and processing operations which has necessitated the reorganization,” it added.
The press release noted that the decision to reorganize the company’s its leaf buying and leaf processing establishments was made as part of a strategic review to optimize process efficiencies and operational effectiveness, and to best position the company for strong and viable future growth.It said this exercise will affect 141 employees, all of whom will be offered generous packages that will exceed what is required by law.