KP Snacks has announced plans to close a Tyrrells factory in central England due to declining demand for its vegetable snack products. This proposed closure, located in Uttoxeter, stems from “a sustained decline in demand and the loss of key export volumes,” according to the UK company, which is owned by Germany’s Intersnack.
Tyrrells, known for its vegetable crisps made from a mix of root vegetables such as parsnips, beetroot, and carrots, has not disclosed the number of employees affected. However, KP Snacks is “supporting them throughout the consultation process.” The company also stated, “Should the proposal progress, we will explore any ways to reduce or avoid redundancies where possible.” Of note, this proposal pertains only to the vegetable crisps range, with Tyrrells potato crisps “not affected and continue to perform strongly.”
Currently, KP Snacks operates seven manufacturing sites across the UK, managing a diverse range of brands, including Skips and Butterkist. Intersnack acquired the Tyrrells brand from Hershey in 2018, signaling an attempt to enhance its portfolio within the food and beverage industry.
In a separate development, KP Snacks is facing disagreements with workers at its Billingham factory located in Teesside, north-east England. Last month, the trade union GMB reported that several staff members supported a walkout after the company “imposed” additional duties without a pay raise or “proper” consultation. GMB organizer Paul Clark noted that “action short of a strike” commenced on February 9, which included measures to slow production and a ban on overtime within the department.
The Billingham facility is responsible for producing crisps and snacks for notable brands like Hula Hoops, McCoy’s, Pom-Bears, and Discos. Workers had also voted in December in favor of strike action, although GMB mentioned no formal action has unfolded since the ballot. Clark remarked that the upcoming meeting between the union and KP Snacks representatives could be crucial in determining the future course of action.
KP Snacks declined to comment on these matters.
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