Irn-Bru maker AG Barr is cutting almost 200 job roles amid changes to its operations.
The drinks giant has proposed to close direct sales operations for Barr Soft Drinks at its Moston, Wednesbury and Dagenham sites, and shut its Leeds office for energy drink brand Boost, PA Media reported.
It comes as AG Barr moves away from its current model of delivering directly to independent retailers and convenience stores, to a field sales operation through its wholesale channels.
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The change, which is likely to be completed in June, will affect up to 160 jobs at the three UK sites.
However, AG Barr said it expects to create some new field sales roles.
It is also looking to make cuts at Boost as it plans to merge the energy drink brand – which it acquired in 2022 – into its Barr Soft Drinks business by the end of 2023.
The changes will result in the closure of the brand’s Leeds office and will affect 35 employees.
AG Barr said: “The proposals are subject to full and proper consultation with impacted employees over the coming months.
“The company will do everything possible to support those affected throughout the process.”
