Mars Belgium has announced plans to close its factory in Olen. The company announced the closure in a press statement released earlier on Wednesday. Around 80 jobs are under threat as a result of the closure announcement. Mars Belgium says that economic challenges including falling production volumes and rising costs are forcing it to close the factory.
Mars Belgium says that the factors listed above have resulted in its Olen site being underutilised which in turn has had a significant impact on efficiency. The factory is due to close at the end of next year.
The Olen factory has been open for around 50 years and was formally part of Master Foods. It produces and packages rice sold under the Ben’s Original brand that was previously called ‘Uncle Ben’s’.
Mars Belgium said in its press statement that it had informed employees and their trade union representatives of its intentions. The company stresses that its priority now is to engage in a “meaningful and transparent information and consultation process” and to “support employees throughout this period with care and respect.”
If the closure goes ahead Mars, will outsource the production of Ben’s Original dry rice products for the European market.