Premier Foods job cuts plan slammed as ‘private equity’ tactics by Unite union

A trade union has accused bosses of Premier Foods of acting like a private equity firm, following its proposal to axe up to 580 jobs.

Premier, maker of Branston Pickle and Oxo stock cubes, said it intended to close six of 11 UK sites by 2009, following a review of its UK manufacturing facilities. This is expected to affect up to 900 jobs, but 300 posts will be created in the remaining five sites.

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Brian Revell, national officer at the Transport and General Workers section of Unite, said the consolidation would cause hardship for more than 1,000 workers.

He said: “We will fully support our members in opposing the proposed closures. Premier Foods is acting like a private equity company.”