WORRIES about the knock-on effect on other businesses in Wellington have been expressed following confirmation that the town’s Swallowfield factory is to close.

Canadian owners KDC/One confirmed last week the business will be relocated to Scotland by the end of 2026 after more than 150 years in Wellington.

Wellington Mayor Cllr Janet Lloyd said: “As the largest employer in the town, the decision will have a huge knock-on effect for many other businesses in the area.

“It is really very bad news for Wellington and its residents and those employed by the company.

“The production and manufacture of aerosols was born and bred in the town and now it will be no more as of the end of the year, with the final decommissioning of the site being completed in 2027.”

Cllr Lloyd said she had been shocked last November when KDC/One first proposed to close the site, particularly after telling the town council in 2019 it was making Wellington its European headquarters.

She said at the time the claim had given hope to the 259 employees and the town that the company would continue to manufacture aerosols and other beauty products locally.

Cllr Lloyd said: “The town council is committed to supporting the employees and our community at this dreadful time and has attended meetings with KDC/One and the Somerset Council economic team to discuss managing a process of support.”

Wellington’s MP Gideon Amos said: “I will do whatever I can to support the local people and families affected.

“This news will come as a bitter blow for many of those affected in Wellington and I am keen to see real help and advice made available.”

Mr Amos said he was disappointed Business Secretary Peter Kyle had not yet replied to his letter asking how the Government could support Swallowfield workers.