Nestlé has proposed to discontinue production of confectionery at its factory in Wiri, Auckland, and instead move it to Australia, resulting in the loss of up to 45 jobs.
Allen’s chews lollies are currently manufactured at Wiri exclusively for sale in Australia, and under the proposal they would now be produced at a larger Allen’s factory in regional Victoria.
Confectionery General Manager Chris O’Donnell said that Nestlé regrets that the proposal will mean job losses at Wiri. He confirmed that the company would provide all affected staff with a generous redundancy package, as well as access to outplacement services.
“This doesn’t reflect on the personal efforts of our staff. It has been a commercial decision made after careful consideration of the benefits of simplifying and consolidating manufacture of our Australian lollies,” O’Donnell said.
Nestlé has confirmed that the factory’s larger manufacturing division a Culinary facility, would not be affected by the proposal and it would continue as the regional hub for Maggi, manufacturing culinary products under the Maggi and Nestlé Docello brands for local and export sale in the retail and food service sectors.
This facility has a strong focus on meeting growing demand for gluten free products in the food service sector.
Staff and unions have been advised of the proposal and will have the opportunity to comment on the plans in the coming two weeks.
By Deborah Jackson
