In February the firm announced it was to close the Wiltshire factory with the loss of 150 jobs.

At a meeting between union officials and the company it was confirmed most production would move to France.

Brian Revell, of the T&G said: "Nestle's decision appears to be based solely on the desire to make bigger and bigger profits."

The loss of 150 jobs as a result of Staverton's closure will have a devastating impact on the local community Brian Revell

Nestle says it is to stop making chilled desserts and close the factory near Trowbridge by September 2004.

Following Thursday's meeting with the T&G, Mr Revell, the union's national organiser for food and agriculture condemned the closure decision as one based on "pure greed".

"We can see no sound economic reason for the closure of Staverton, as it is performing well and generating a profit," he said.

The union said it would be pressing Nestle to rethink its decision.

"The loss of 150 jobs as a result of Staverton's closure will have a devastating impact on the local community, as it is a key provider of jobs for the village of 400 people."

A meeting has been scheduled with the company for the end of March.

The union has said it will be making a close analysis of financial information Nestle has promised to provide.