Irn Bru maker confirms Fentimans job losses
Getty ImagesA soft drinks manufacturer has confirmed 29 people will lose their jobs as it shuts an office following a takeover.
Scottish firm AG Barr bought the Hexham-based botanical brewery and fizzy drinks brand Fentimans for about £38m in February.
The Irn Bru manufacturer has now said it has made the "difficult decision" to close the Hexham office, with a phased wind-down taking place over the summer.
It said it meant 29 workers would be made redundant, with seven Fentimans staff joining AG Barr.
AG Barr said the decision had not been "taken lightly" but it would ensure the "long-term integration and continued growth and success" of the Fentimans brand.
A spokesperson said the team's priority had been the welfare of affected colleagues.
"We have conducted individual consultations with every team member and provided comprehensive support, including identifying internal opportunities across the wider business, providing dedicated outplacement services, and offering enhanced redundancy packages," they said.
Hexham mayor Derek Kennedy previously said the potential loss of jobs in Hexham would be a "big blow".
"Fentimans is a local success story and we are very proud of their accomplishments over the years and the employment they give to local people," he said.
