Heinz’s aim to shut Norfolk plant ‘devastating’
“This is devastating news for the workforce, and so close to Christmas,” said Julia Long, the national officer for Unite with responsibility for food manufacturing.
“Two hundred families face a very bleak time unless we can persuade Heinz to think again. It is particularly concerning that Heinz is planning only 45 days to consult on their closure plans.
“This is a direct consequence of the current government’s law change which allows companies to walk away from communities in a matter of weeks. We would urge Heinz to think again and work with us to find another solution.”
The move follows Heinz’s announcement last year that it planned to cut 250 jobs in the UK and Ireland.
Acquisition
At the time, Unite national officer Rhys McCarthy said he believed the cuts were connected to Heinz’s acquisition by US billionaire Warren Buffet’s venture capitalist groups Berkshire Hathaway and 3G Capital for £18bn. The deal was struck at the beginning of 2013.
However, a spokesman for Heinz UK & Ireland told FoodManufacture.co.uk the two announcements were unconnected.
“The proposed closure comes as our license to manufacture Aunt Bessie’s frozen potato products for the William Jackson Food Group, owner of the Aunt Bessie’s brand, nears its end in April 2015 and will not be renewed,” said Heinz in a statement.
‘Deeply disappointed’
“Heinz is deeply disappointed to have to make this announcement, however, given the decision by the William Jackson Food Group to move to an alternative supplier there is not sufficient manufacturing volume to keep the factory operational.
“Over the coming weeks, Heinz will work with customers to determine the final date of production, which is anticipated to be between February and April next year.”
Heinz said the proposal was only being made “after thoroughly exploring extensive alternatives and options”.
Regretted
The company said it appreciated and regretted the impact of the decision on employees and the local community. It stressed it did not reflect the commitment of workers or the quality of the Aunt Bessie’s products they had made at the factory since 1999.
“The proposal is subject to a 45-day consultation process with representatives of Heinz Westwick employees,” it stated.
“During this period we will consider suggestions made by employee representatives and will continue to explore alternatives to avoid or limit the impact of a potential closure. We will also continue to explore all opportunities to find a buyer for the factory.
“Heinz is committed to ensuring all employees are treated in a fair and reasonable manner, and with dignity and respect.”
The Norfolk facility processes Aunt Bessie’s-branded frozen potato products. Other Aunt Bessie’s frozen products, including Yorkshire puddings and vegetables, are handled elsewhere.
