Unite union has called for urgent talks with Carlsberg and warned of hundreds of possible job losses following the Danish brewer’s £3.3bn takeover of Britvic.
The deal intends to create a single integrated beverage company in the UK, called Carlsberg Britvic, which the beer manufacturer described as being “transformative” through creating “considerable” opportunity for the future development of both brands.
However, Unite has expressed concerns around a plan to cut 1% or about 345 jobs in the combined group if the merger is approved by shareholders, with Unite fearing that the majority of these losses will hit the UK, The Times reported.
However, Britvic’s board has recommended that its shareholders accept the deal in a vote planned for 27 August.
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Unite told the publication: “Workers must not be the ones to lose out as a result of this acquisition and we would like to see employee numbers grow in accordance with this commitment from Carlsberg to future growth and career opportunities.
“We note that, according to Carlsberg, soft drinks are highly synergistic with beer throughout the value chain. It is vital that we see detailed proposals relating to investment, details that so far are lacking, including in relation to bottling agreements, as the documents disclosed are highly redacted.”
The brewer’s acquisition documents state: “It is anticipated that efforts will be made to mitigate headcount reductions made as a result of redundancies, via natural attrition, the elimination of vacant roles and alternative job opportunities.
“Any individuals impacted will be treated in a manner consistent with Carlsberg’s high standards, culture and practices.”
Carlsberg declined to comment.
