Burton MP Jacob Collier is seeking assurances over the future of the town’s Unilever factory following the company’s global merger with McCormick & Company.
The deal will see Unilever combine its foods division with the US-based firm to create a major new condiments and seasonings business.
In response, the MP said he is in discussions with the Government and the company to understand what the move could mean for the site, which is Unilever’s largest UK food factory.
No specific changes to the Burton factory have been announced. The site was transformed in a £40million five-year investment programme, which was completed in November 2024 and brought production of the full Unilever UK condiments business into one specialist hub.
Jacob wrote on social media: “I am in discussions with the Government and the company and have asked for more information on how this could impact the Unilever Burton factory specifically.
“Burton’s site had a £40million investment in November 2024 so I hope that signals to the new owners about how key this site is.
“Marmite, Colman’s, Hellmann’s and Bovril are all iconic British brands made here in Burton-upon-Trent. Marmite has been made in Burton since 1902. I want these products to stay British and stay in Burton.
“I will also be contacting the Unite trade union rep at Unilever Burton to discuss how this could impact jobs, and what support is available for their employees.”
Unilever told Daily Focus that it will not be commenting further beyond its announcement of the merger, while Unite the Union said it had no comment at this stage.
