FDBusiness.com

Following a detailed review of its manufacturing sites and distribution network, UK-based soft drinks group Britvic is proposing to close its manufacturing site in Norwich and to transfer production of Robinsons and Fruit Shoot to its other sites in East London, Leeds and Rugby. The proposal is being made to improve the efficiency and productivity of Britvic’s manufacturing operations. It is proposed that the Norwich site, where Britvic employs 242 people, will close towards the end of 2019.

Unilever, which co-owns the Norwich site with Britvic, has been informed of the proposals.

In November 2015, Britvic announced a 3-year business capability programme, investing a net £240 million of capital in its manufacturing operations in Great Britain, to ensure it had the appropriate infrastructure to compete in the market and deliver sustainable cost and commercial benefits.

Simon Litherland, chief executive of Britvic, says: “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.”

“However the changes we are proposing,” he adds, “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.”