Unions criticise closing cider factory
Union representatives say workers at a Somerset cider factory have been treated disgracefully after they found out they'd be losing their jobs when they read it in a newspaper.
Somerset cider factory to axe 120 jobs
A Somerset firm that's been producing cider since 1770, is set to close with the loss of up to 120 jobs.
Production at Shepton Mallet Cider , which makes brands such as Blackthorn and Olde English, is being switched to Ireland - though apple pulping with remain.
The parent company of the cider mill, the C&C Group, confirmed the move.
Production and packaging will be transferred on a phased basis from the facilities in Shepton Mallet to Ireland, where Clonmel will become the core manufacturing site.
The fruit milling operation at Shepton Mallet will not be impacted by the move, and the company say they will continue to source apples from local farmers. However the loss of 127 jobs from the Somerset site will be a blow to the region.
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The history of Shepton cider production
The cider mill has been a fixture in Shepton Mallet for as long as anyone can remember - but exactly how did it all begin?
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Workers hearing of job losses via media is 'disgraceful'
Workers at Shepton Mallet Cider learning about the planned closure of the site from the media is ‘disgraceful and discourteous' say union.