The move would affect up to 45 positions. Staff and unions were advised March 24 and have the opportunity to comment on the plans over the next two weeks.

While confectionery manufacturing would cease at the site, the factory’s culinary production would not be affected by the proposed changes. The factory will continue as the regional hub for Maggi, manufacturing culinary products under the Maggi and Nestlé Docello brands for local and export sale in the retail and foodservice sectors. This facility has a strong focus on meeting growing demand for gluten-free products in the food service sector.

Nestlé Confectionery General Manager Chris O’Donnell said the company regrets that the proposal could mean job losses at Wiri. He said Nestlé would provide all affected staff with a redundancy package, as well as access to outplacement services.

“This doesn’t reflect on the personal efforts of our staff,” O’Donnell said. “It has been a commercial decision made after careful consideration of the benefits of simplifying and consolidating manufacture of our Australian lollies.”