Coca-Cola has announced that it is shutting down its manufacturing plant in Athy, cutting 82 jobs, according to the Irish Independent.
The drinks giant will transfer production from the facility in Kildare to its high capacity facility at Ballina Beverages in Co Mayo.
43 of the jobs will also transfer to the Mayo plant, and Coca-Cola said that employees affected by the Athy closure will have the option of moving over with their positions.
The company will also provide workers with financial advice and retraining.
Disappointment
"It is with regret that we are announcing the proposed closure of the plant in Athy," said Manqoba Khumalo, general manager of Athy International Concentrates.
"The site has been in operation for 45 years, with Coca-Cola acquiring the plant in 2000.
"Employees have made a valuable contribution to Coca-Cola's international business."
Commenting on the closure, Allan Shine, CEO of County Kildare Chamber said, “We have been in touch with Athy Concentrates this afternoon to offer our support for the employees who this afternoon received this shocking news.
“We will offer a wide range of supports to the company and its employees over the forthcoming weeks but our immediate thoughts are with those affected by today’s news.”
© 2018 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Aidan O'Sullivan. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
