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MP told of support measures and generous redundancy package for JDE staff
16/11/2023
Victoria Prentis spoke to Plant Director Edward Tansill on Thursday morning
Banbury’s MP has spoken to the Plant Director of Jacob Douwe Egberts (JDE) in Banbury following Tuesday’s shock news of closure of large parts of the factory. During the conversation Victoria Prentis was told that those losing their jobs would be offered a redundancy package which was “generous, offering well above the statutory level”.
280 roles look set to go from the production and research and development areas of the Banbury site as production moves abroad. A presence in Banbury will be retained, simply as a specialist coffee packing facility with roles for 134 people.
Victoria Prentis spoke to Plant Director Edward Tansill on Thursday morning. She was told that shifting the focus to coffee packaging would help ensure that Banbury remained a key site within the JDE estate.
Mrs Prentis said: “It is clearly important that all associates who are facing the prospect of redundancy have the opportunity to have their views heard and are offered support as they seek to find alternative employment. Ed assured me that a range of measures will be in place to support associates throughout the consultation process, which will start on 28 November and will run for a minimum period of 45 days. Both elected representatives and Unite the Union’s Joint Negotiation and Consultation Committee will be involved throughout. I understand that the initial redundancy package to be proposed is generous, offering well above the statutory level.
“I know this will be an extremely difficult time for associates and their families. I made it clear to Ed that they must be given as much support as possible so that they have a clear plan and alternative job opportunities are identified quickly.
“We are fortunate to have a very active Jobcentre in the town who I know will be happy to assist if necessary. JDE have also said that they will host a Jobs Fair with local employers, many of whom I am sure will be interested in the skillset of the associates currently working at the plant.
“I remain disappointed about the decision but know that it has not been taken lightly. My conversation with the Plant Director left me feeling reassured that he will do what he can to make the transition as smooth as possible for all those affected. If anyone has specific concerns, please do get in touch with me directly via victoria.prentis.mp@parliament.uk.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam