Terry's chocolate severs link with UK

Last updated at 12:11 20 April 2004


Chocolate manufacturer Terry's is to close its UK factory after 230-years and move production to alternative sites across Europe. The shut down will mean the loss of more than 300 British jobs.

The closure of the plant, which makes chocolate products including Terry's Chocolate Orange and Terry's All Gold, is expected to take place in the second half of 2005 and will affect all 316 employees.

Commenting on the closure, John Pollock, director of the plant, said: 'It is a very difficult time for us all. The relationship between the company, employees and the city of York, especially the Terry's connection, stretches back many, many years.

'In this situation it is important that we focus on our people and ensure that everyone is treated fairly.

'As well as providing as much advance notice as possible we will be supporting employees with appropriate settlement packages and offering assistance in their search for alternative employment.'

Chocolate history

The site on Bishopthorpe Road has been making chocolate confectionery since 1926 and now produces 20,000 tonnes of chocolate each year for the domestic and international market.

Future production is expected to be transferred to existing facilities in Sweden, Belgium, Poland and Slovakia.

Earlier this year, Kraft, the parent company of Terry's, announced a global restructuring programme designed to improve the company's cost structure and generate resources to fund future growth initiatives.

Under this programme, the company expects to exit or close up to 20 plants around the world over the next three years. To date, it has announced plans to close five facilities.

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