Colman's Mustard Norwich factory under threat after Britvic announces closure
Unilever confirmed on Tuesday that it was reviewing its production of Colman's Mustard at a manufacturing site in Norwich shared by Britvic, which announced earlier that it was closing its drinks business there.
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Britvic said it plans to transfer production of Robinsons and Fruit Shoot to its manufacturing sites in East London, Leeds and Rugby, in a move that will affect 242 employees.
The decision - which follows a detailed review of its manufacturing sites and distribution network - is being made "to improve the efficiency and productivity of the company's manufacturing operations".
Unilever said: "Following Britvic’s announcement that it is proposing to close its manufacturing site in Norwich, Unilever will be launching a review of its production which is co-located at the site.
"Britvic and Unilever’s operations have been uniquely intertwined at the site for many years, relying on a shared infrastructure. Although no decisions have been made, we need to recognise that Britvic’s proposed withdrawal would have serious implications for Unilever in Norwich.
"One of those options will include the potential closure of our Norwich factory."
The Unite Union expressed concerns about the future production of Colman's in Norwich, saying Britvic's announcement has "serious implications" for the future of the iconic brand, which is owned by Unilever and has been produced at the same factory since the 1860s.
National officer Rhys McCarthy said: "The sad news that Britvic is closing its operations in Norwich also has an impact on Unilever workers who the share the same site.
“This is very painful news for our members and their families at Britvic and we will be giving the maximum support to our members at what is a very difficult time in the days and weeks ahead.
“The Unilever has today announced a review of the whole site to be concluded by the end of November. Everything is up for review including expanding its operations, selling part of the site and, more worryingly, closure."