Britvic to move work to Warwickshire as it plans to cut 242 jobs

Soft drinks group Britvic has announced plans to transfer production of its Robinsons and Fruit Shoot brands from its Norwich site to manufacturing facilities in Leeds, Rugby and East London in a move that affects 242 of its staff.

Britvic said the proposal is being made to improve the efficiency and productivity of its manufacturing operations which includes plans to shut the Norwich site.

The proposal has been approved by the board for consultation with affected employees it is expected that the site will close towards the end of 2019, the company said this morning.

“Britvic has 242 employees on site that are affected by this decision.  Every impacted employee will be offered a comprehensive package of support, including redeployment opportunities at other sites and outplacement services to help find alternative employment,” the company said.

In November 2015 Britvic announced a three-year business capability programme, investing £240m of capital in its GB manufacturing operations.

“We remain committed to this programme and the proposed closure does not affect the previously stated guidance. It is anticipated that there will be costs associated with the implementation, subject to the outcome of the consultation process, which are expected to be clarified in Britvic’s preliminary results release on November 29th,” the group said.

Britvic chief executive Simon Litherland said: “Britvic is proud to be a British manufacturer and Norwich has been an important site for our business for many years. This is not a proposal that we make lightly and we know this is upsetting news for our colleagues. We are very grateful for the hard work and dedication of our employees at our Norwich factory and today’s announcement is in no way a reflection on their performance or commitment.

“However the changes we are proposing today present significant productivity and efficiency savings in our manufacturing operations, deliver environmental benefits and, coupled with our ongoing investment programme in our GB manufacturing operations, ensure that we have the flexibility and capability we need to respond to changing consumer trends faster and more efficiently. No decisions will be made prior to full and proper consultation with employees and our focus is on ensuring we offer our colleagues on-going support and assistance throughout this difficult time.”

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