Jobs are at risk after chocolate maker Barry Callebaut revealed plans to close its site in Moreton.
The Swiss giant said that due to equipment and operational restrictions, the site can no longer meet the costs needed to "ensure the correct economies of scale". It added there had been a significant decrease in customer requirements and volume at the Wirral factory and that its decision will make sure it can operate profitably.
There are 45 permanent employees and 19 agency staff working at the Moreton site. A spokesperson for Barry Callebaut said: "As part of Barry Callebaut’s strategy to continuously improve its operational efficiency and to better balance production capacity and demand in the UK, the group has started a consultation process on the potential closure of its chocolate factory in Moreton.
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"This is not a course of action that has been taken lightly. Barry Callebaut has strong foundations for growth and the UK will remain a key market for future investment.
"We understand that this will be a concerning time for all those that will be affected by this announcement and their families, and we will be supporting them through this difficult period."
Barry Callebaut created in 1996 through the merging of the Belgian chocolate producer Callebaut and the French company Cacao Barry. It is headquartered in Zürich and operates in over 30 countries.
In the UK, the group also has operations in Chester and Banbury and employs about 370 people.
