Midlands business latest: 900 jobs are at risk as HelloFresh proposes major site closure

The 237,000-square-foot site on St George’s Way became HelloFresh’s second UK production facility and its third largest in Europe when it launched in 2020.

If the proposal moves forward, HelloFresh plans to prioritise redeployment for a majority of the 900 affected employees at its Derby and Banbury locations.

Additionally, the company intends to offer incentives to employees who stay until the facility's planned closure in mid-2025.

HelloFresh has begun a consultation process with employees, though the final outcome remains uncertain.

The announcement comes amid criticism from Community Union, which alleged HelloFresh recently dismissed Nuneaton staff who raised concerns over difficult working conditions, including restricted break access.

HelloFresh has refuted these allegations, particularly concerning its break and termination policies, citing an internal investigation that revealed “multiple serious breaches of employment terms,” leading to dismissals after some employees reportedly refused to work during their shift earlier this year.

A HelloFresh spokesperson commented: “We have made the difficult decision to propose the closure of our Nuneaton distribution centre, subject to consultation. After exploring all options, we believe consolidating operations in more advanced parts of our network will enable us to better serve customers while lowering emissions and waste.

“We understand this news is unsettling for our employees, and we are supporting them through the consultation process. If the proposal is accepted, we will prioritize internal redeployment and offer incentives for employees who remain until the facility closes.

“The proposed timeline would keep the site operational until mid-2025, providing ample notice well beyond contractual periods. The decision does not reflect on the performance of the local team, whose hard work and dedication we deeply appreciate.”

Community Union’s Regional Secretary for the Midlands, Gavin Miller, responded: “The proposed closure of HelloFresh’s Nuneaton centre is troubling news for the dedicated workforce. This community deserves better, and we will press HelloFresh to fully justify this proposal and ensure all alternative options have been thoroughly considered. Community Union stands ready to support our members through this challenging time.”