Shameful way to end 100-year tradition, says Unite.

Unite has criticised Coca-Cola over the “bad handling” of its announcement to close the Malvern Water bottled plant.

Unite said the shock announcement last week “showed no respect for the loyal workforce”, who still work at the plant in Colwall.

Seventeen workers are set to lose their jobs when the plant closes on Wednesday, November 3.

Coca-Cola has decided to end the production of Malvern Water, blaming competition in the industry.

Jennie Formby, Unite national officer for the food and drinks sector, said: “These workers and their families have been disgracefully treated by Coca-Cola Enterprises [CCE]. The company obviously made its mind up long ago about their futures, yet sat on their decision until a good day to bury bad news came along.

“We are really concerned now for these workers and are determined that CCE does right for them in redundancy.

“This is a sad and shameful way to end to a proud 100- year tradition in Malvern.” A spokeswoman for Coca-Cola said: “Understandably, it is a difficult time for our staff and we are working with them to support them in any way we can.

“This has been a tough decision for us to take – we have been part of the Malvern community for more than 23 years – but unfortunately it’s one we had to take given the commercial realties we face.”Two town businesses which stock the world-famous water have expressed their shock at the news but said they would turn to Holywell Spring Water, based in Malvern Wells, which bottles from the Holywell, which has been used since 1558.

Jon Roe, owner of Priors Croft Restaurant and Bar, said: “I’m very very disappointed but it’s very important for me to keep it local so I’m glad there’s a local alternative. From now on Priors Croft will be stocking Holywell water.”

Matthew Cooke, owner of Malvern Hills Hotel, said: “I’m really upset. Malvern Water sells really really well. I have tried stocking other brands in the past but my customers always want Malvern.

“We have a really proud heritage of Malvern water. I will try to keep the alternative as local as possible, so Holywell will be getting a call from me.”

Rhys Humm, company director of Holywell Spring Water, said: “Firstly, I’d like to say that I’m deeply sorry that Malvern Water is closing because it put Malvern, as a town, on the map. But from a company perspective, it’s an opportunity for us and one we will work hard to maximise.

“I’m delighted to hear that businesses will be coming to us.”