Following the announcement of staff layoffs at Poole superyacht makers Sunseeker last month, the company has assured the measures are only “temporary” in a new statement.

The move came after supply chain troubles for the brand reached a peak in December, delaying production.

Around 100 Sunseeker employees are now in limbo.

“We are working hard to rectify the operational issues, and we can now confirm that the 100 staff will return by Monday 27 January,” the statement read.

“During the temporary layoff period, each employee will receive 50 per cent of their normal basic hourly rate in an effort to minimise any personal difficulties during this time.

“We are speaking to affected employees to explain the circumstances.

“It’s important to state that no permanent employee has lost their job.

“We reiterate how important all our staff, their knowledge, skills and craftsmanship are to us.

“We appreciate their loyalty and patience at this time.”

Sunseeker was acquired last November by Miami-based investors Lionheart Capital and Milan’s Orienta Capital Partners.

The new owners promised at the time to retain the 55-year-old brand’s staff and production in its hometown of Poole.

But the latest layoffs – if only temporary – follow a troubling trend across the marine industry, which has also seen rival Princess Yachts cut around 250 jobs at its Plymouth shipyard.

• sunseeker.com