Fentimans job loss fears 'big blow' to town
GoogleThe potential loss of nearly 40 jobs at a soft drinks manufacturer would be a "big blow" to the local area, a town mayor has said.
A formal consultation is set to take place on proposals for Hexham-based botanical brewery Fentimans, which could see 37 workers made redundant.
The brand was recently acquired for about £38m by Scottish firm AG Barr, which said it was "fully committed" to its growth and no final decisions had been made.
Hexham mayor Derek Kennedy, who is chair of the town council, said he was "really concerned" about the "terrible loss of employment".
"To lose a brand such as that quality and the potential, the staff that are local to Hexham, is a big blow because of the employment," said Kennedy, who also sits as an Independent Group councillor on Northumberland County Council.
"Fentimans is a local success story and we are very proud of their accomplishments over the years and the employment they give to local people."
'Unsettling time'
The BBC approached Fentimans about whether it had been aware the takeover deal had the potential to lead to the factory's closure and whether the company had sought assurances to protect jobs.
A spokesperson said it was unable to comment on the acquisition.
Hexham North Conservative councillor Trevor Cessford said any job losses were "disappointing".
"I hope the firm will try to help these people relocate to other jobs."
Hexham Labour MP Joe Morris said he was "deeply concerned" about the potential job losses.
"Fentimans is a beloved local business that brings pride to the town of Hexham. Known around the world, it has been a mainstay in our community for years," he said.
"I will be seeking to meet with Barr at the earliest opportunity to outline the importance of these jobs to our local economy."
AG Barr, which owns drinks brands including Irn-Bru, Boost and Rubicon, said it recognised it was "an unsettling time" and the priority was to provide people with "full support" throughout the process.
"We are fully committed to the Fentimans brand, its heritage, and its future growth," a spokesperson said.
"Our intention is to help strengthen the brand and create a sustainable platform for long-term investment and greater success as part of the AG Barr portfolio."
