The union said up to 290 jobs could be lost with the closure of the Britvic factories in Chelmsford and Huddersfield and a warehouse in Belfast.
Jennie Formby, Unite national officer for food and drink, said: “The threat to the jobs at the three sites is a very bitter blow for the workers and their families. We want to analyse the company’s statement fully and consult with our members.
“It should be remembered that this is a very profitable company and could well afford to keep all these existing operations going.”
The union said 230 jobs were under threat at Chelmsford, while 40 jobs were threatened at its Pennine Spring water factory in Huddersfield and 20 roles at the Belfast warehouse.
Safeguard members jobs
Union officials are to hold talks with management next week in a bid to keep the sites open and to safeguard members’ jobs.
Britvic announced this week (May 22) that it planned to axe the jobs and close the sites as part of a £30M cost savings plan.
The firm’s chief executive Simon Litherland said:“We regret the potential loss of jobs caused by the change and are committed to supporting affected employees.”
The cost cutting plans would lead to an overall reduction in headcount of between 10% and 15%, he added.
Britvic – which makes iconic brands such as Robinsons, Pepsi and Tango – employs about 3,300 people.
Meanwhile, Britvic revealed strong profit growth with earnings before interest tax and amortisation up by 27.6% to £53.6M for the 28 weeks to April 14.