The restructure, the outcome of a consultation process by the tea maker, will see the loss of 55 full-time rolls and 21 temporary roles from the 295 strong workforce at the site. Departments most likely to be affected by the announcement included production, engineering and office-based functions.
Chief executive Des Kingsley said the restructure was an integral part of a broader plan to secure a viable future for the company.
‘Action to remain competitive’
“This decision has not been taken lightly,” said Kingsley. “We recognise the impact of today’s announcement, but we have to take action if we are to remain competitive and build a strong and successful future for the business, in which there will be a renewed focus on efficiency, cost management, quality and service levels.
“We will offer every possible assistance to all those people whose roles will be affected and will work closely with relevant support agencies in the area to try and find alternative employment opportunities.”
To coincide with the restructure, Typhoo has proposed a new double-day factory shift pattern – moving from three shifts per day to two – as well as more rigorous buying procedures and a drive to improve operational effectiveness in all key areas of the business.
‘Secure a positive future’
Kingsley added: “We have to implement such a robust programme if we are to achieve the required changes. If we do, I’m hopeful that we can secure a positive future for Typhoo, one of Britain’s best-loved brands, and our other hot beverages, and for everyone who remains associated with them.”
The company has launched a 30-day period of consultation with members of staff that will be affected by the organisational restructure of the business.
Typhoo’s plans for its Moreton site come less than a week after Unilever announced it had launched a strategic review of its tea business, admitting “subdued consumer demand” for black tea.
Unilever CEO Alan Jope told Bloomberg that it was “too soon” to say what that review might entail for the company, which owns brands such as Brooke Bond and PG Tips.
