Scottish biscuits supplier Border has switched from a seven-day week to a five-day one under a new production schedule.

The business, which has a £16.5m turnover, said the revamped production schedule gave its 150 staff weekends off and a better work-life balance.

Until last month, the Borders factory in Lanark operated a rota that meant employees’ shifts changed weekly and included Saturdays and Sundays.

Border has now changed to a five-day week, under which staff work one of two eight-hour shifts each weekday between 6am and 10pm. The company said this allowed employees to have weekends off while benefiting from increased pay, and provided stability and consistency as staff were split into smaller set working groups of 10 to 15.

It also meant the business now had time at weekends for deep-cleaning and any required engineering works, said the company.

“People are the heart and soul of our operation and the changes aim to provide a better work-life balance for all of our employees,” said production manager Elaine Bone.

“Almost a third of my colleagues have been at the company for at least 10 years, so the new shift system is a great way to start the New Year and recognise the team for all of their hard work and dedication.”

Founded in 1984, the independently owned, family-run business produces a range of 21 different biscuit varieties, in packaging formats including mini packs, sharing packs and gifting products.

In November, Warburtons said it would have the opportunity to introduce new working patterns after agreeing a “landmark” deal with the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers’ Union (BFAWU). The business, producer of Britain’s biggest bread brand, said the move would enable it to meet changing consumer demand while improving the long-term security of its staff.