Heinz Wattie’s has confirmed it will close manufacturing sites in Christchurch, Dunedin and Auckland, along with frozen packing lines in Hastings, a move expected to result in the loss of about 300 jobs nationwide.
The decision followed a formal consultation process with staff and unions and will mean the company exits its frozen vegetables, coffee and dips businesses in New Zealand.
Managing director Andrew Donegan today said the closures were necessary to ensure the long‑term viability of the business.
"After careful consideration and analysis of proposed suggestions, we have reached the conclusion that closing these sites and exiting these categories is the only way forward for the long‑term viability of the business," Donegan said.
"While change is needed, this is an incredibly difficult time for our employees and business."
“No one wants to be making these decisions, but it's one, as an organisation, we need to,” Andrew Donegan said. (Source: 1News)
The closures will be phased over the course of the year, meaning final redundancy numbers are not yet known. Heinz Wattie’s said it will continue to explore redeployment opportunities where possible, particularly within its Hawke’s Bay operations.
Of those affected, almost 50 workers from the frozen packing lines in Hastings will be redeployed, with some retrained to remain with the company.
Donegan acknowledged many of those facing redundancy were long‑serving and highly skilled staff.
"The majority of those impacted are long‑term experienced and skilled employees who would be sought‑after candidates for many employers,” he said.
Heinz Wattie’s said it would provide support to affected staff, including redundancy packages, employee counselling, career transition services and redeployment assistance.
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