A TRADE union has said it is 'disgusted' after 82 of its members working at the Relyon bed-making factory in Wellington were abruptly made redundant on Friday (July 10).

The GMB Union said the employees were made aware they were losing their jobs via an 'automated message' sent yesterday evening.

GMB's regional political officer Matt Roberts commented: "Some of those made redundant by automated message tonight have worked at the factory for over 40 years.

"There has been no formal consultation whatsoever with the trade union and we had no advance warning of this. We therefore have no knowledge of how these 82 members were selected by the administrators.

"This is a truly shocking way to treat people, and our regional officers and reps will do everything they can to support the workforce at this difficult time.

"We call on those hiding behind automated messaging to instead meet, consult and work with the trade union, to ensure a fair and transparent process, to explore all options to save the site, and treat people with respect."

The Gazette has approached administrators PWC for a comment.