Heinz buy means job cuts?

London – Trade union Unite has called for an urgent meeting with HJ Heinz management and the consortium acquiring the company to seek assurances over British jobs and British plants.

HJ Heinz Co on 14 Feb announced an agreement to be bought by a consortium including billionaire investor Warren Buffett in a deal valued at $28 billion including the company’s debt.

“Whilst we recognise the commitment given by Berkshire Hathaway that it will be ‘business as usual’ at Heinz, the 3,000 Unite members that work for the company in the UK will want more detailed assurances that their jobs and sites will remain secure,” said Jennie Formby, Unite national officer.

“Unite will be seeking an early meeting with senior management to allow us to explore in greater detail what impact, if any, this acquisition will have for the UK business.”