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Schawk, the international advertising and packaging pre-media specialist, has placed 56 jobs at its Leeds site under threat following the announcement that the facility will be closed by the end of the year.

The closure is part of a global decision by Chicago-headquartered Schawk to reduce costs and consolidate sites in Europe and will coincide with the expiration of the lease on the Leeds facility.

A spokesman from the company said that the "decision was not a reflection on either, specific business performance of the site or the dedication and quality of it's employee's".

He said: "As Schawk has grown through acquisition, there are a number of locations that have been consolidated both in the UK and the US.

"Ths is certainly difficult for us because it impacts on a number of our fine employees and thier families."

Continuing work from the Leeds facility will be transferred to Schawk's remaining Manchester and Newcastle facilities.

The company is currently undergoing a 30-day consultation period with employees, which includes an open door policy with management.

Unite officer Stephen Hart said that of the 86 employees at the site 56 are expected to lose their jobs, although 30 will be given the opportunity to move to either the Newcastle or Manchester sites.

"The job market for these types of skills is shrinking throughout the UK," said Hart. "It's absolutely devastating to these people who have been dedicated and loyal to the company."

Schawk has undergone a period of restructure since its inception in 2004, which has included the closure of the Bristol site in July 2005 and the Birmingham site in February 2006.

The company previously cut 40 jobs at its Leeds facility in November 2006 and transferred its headquarters to London.