HUNDREDS of jobs are set to go at a Somerset cosmetics factory.

Yesterday (November 19), workers at the Swallowfield KDC/One plant in Wellington, were stunned to be told news of the firm’s plan to close the branch.

The factory is understood to employ around 260 people, ranking it among the largest employers in the Somerset town.

A spokesperson for the firm said: “After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to propose to close our Swallowfield Wellington production site.

“This proposal was not taken lightly, and it comes after an extensive review of various factors regarding our manufacturing operations.

“As a result of the review, we propose to absorb the volume from Swallowfield Wellington and allocate it to our Barony Universal site in Scotland so we can operate more efficiently.

“Our priority remains the well-being and support of our employees during this proposed transition. We will be providing assistance and resources – including a number of relocation opportunities – to employees that may be impacted by this.”

READ MORE: Business news from your Somerset Leveller

President and CEO of KDC/One, Nicholas Whitley, added: “While we have made significant investment in our Wellington Somerset site since it was acquired by KDC/One in 2019, it has become clearer to the Board that the current infrastructure does not provide us with what we need to support our future growth ambitions.

“As a major employer in Wellington, we recognise the impact that this proposal will have on the town and surrounding areas,” he added. “Therefore, we look forward to working closely with the region’s business community and local job support and skills agencies to assist those employees affected.”

MP Gideon Amos (Lib Dem, Taunton & Wellington) has written to Mr Whitley calling for more information.

“After 149 years of Swallowfield in Wellington and the recent investment made in the premises in 2023/24, your proposals are totally unexpected and beg the question: Why you are not willing or proposing to sell the business as a going concern?,” he said.

“With over 250 jobs at stake, I urge the company to put their interests, and those of Wellington, ahead of short-term considerations by thinking again and keeping the premises operating until a buyer is found.”

Mr Amos added: “While I am pursuing continued operation as a priority, I have also spoken today with the leader of Somerset Council, Bill Revans.

“He has now asked the Economic Development department team to step up support for those affected.

“If the closure is to go ahead, we must do everything we can to help them.”