Several jobs at risk at Thorntons' chocolate factory in Derbyshire

A number of jobs are under threat at Thorntons’ chocolate factory in Derbyshire – but the company insists the site ‘remains key’ to the business.
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Bosses say they will ‘review approximately 10 managerial and administrative roles’ at the Somercotes factory, which employs hundreds of people.

Earlier, the historic company announced it had taken the ‘difficult decision’ to go into full consultation to start the ‘permanent closure of our retail store estate’, believed to include 61 outlets.

The Thorntons' chocolate factory on Wimsey way, Somercotes.The Thorntons' chocolate factory on Wimsey way, Somercotes.
The Thorntons' chocolate factory on Wimsey way, Somercotes.
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In total, 603 workers are at risk of redundancy as a result of the plans – which the company says are due to the ‘ongoing impact of Covid-19’.

Adam Goddard, retail director at Thorntons, said: “The consultation will review approximately 10 managerial and administrative roles in the Alfreton factory.

“There are no industrial roles impacted.”

The firm made a number of redundancies at the factory last year.

Mr Goddard added: “Our factory in Alfreton remains key and has recently become a Centre of Excellence for assortments.

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“We are continuing on our journey to produce more Thorntons assortment products for the international market – the first being our Golden Gallery collection now available in the USA and Canada.

“We also remain committed to innovating in the UK market.”

Thorntons has been owned by the Italian firm Ferrero since 2015.

On the proposed closure of its stores, the company said in a statement: “We understand that this will be an uncertain and concerning time for our colleagues and we will actively support them during this period.

“As customers continue to change the way they shop, we must change with them.

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“We have seen a strong growth in Thorntons.co.uk and this will remain a key focus for us in continuing to provide you with your favourite Thorntons ranges, including our unique personalisation offering.

“In addition, we continue to invest in building our brand in grocery channels with our partners in order to meet the demand from you, our loyal customers.

“We remain committed to our iconic Thorntons brand and will continue to invest further in the future potential to ensure we evolve with the times.”

Thorntons was founded by Joseph Thorton in 1911, selling homemade sweets from a shop in Sheffield.

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