Albéa Colchester considers closure putting 160 jobs at risk

Albéa, based on Severalls Business Park, produces tubes for items such as toothpaste, pharmaceuticals, food and cosmetics. 

The firm took over the former Betts brand in 2012 and recorded a steady growth, making more than $1.2b in sales in 2021. 

However, 167 jobs at the Colchester branch are now at risk as bosses are considering closing the site for good, following a review of the site’s viability in early November. 

Production - Former mayor Tim Young was shown around the site for the 10th anniversary (Image: Newsquest)

In a statement, a spokesman for Albéa said: “The Colchester site manufactures laminate tubes for the oral care, pharmaceutical, food and personal care markets.  

“This proposal is a result of changes in the business dynamic and production mix which have adversely affected production capacity at the facility.  

“Albéa Tubes will begin collective consultations with employee representatives in the coming days to discuss the implications of this proposal and explore all available options.” 

Following the review, the firm is deliberating moving its production to Europe. 

“The comprehensive review indicated that projected sales for the Colchester site are insufficient to compensate for ongoing production losses, making it no longer viable to maintain operations,” an Albéa spokesman said. 

“As a result, Albéa Tubes has proposed closing the Colchester site in 2026 and the transfer of its production at other Albéa Tubes facilities in Europe.  

Work - Albéa employee overseeing print bay (Image: Newsquest)

“Regrettably, the proposed closure would result in the loss of 167 roles at the Colchester site.  

“Albéa Tubes remains committed to supporting its employees during this difficult time and will ensure that the consultation process is conducted with transparency and care.” 

Albéa has had a long-standing presence in Colchester and previously operated under the name Betts, based on a site in Ipswich Road since 1953. 

Workers at the former Betts factory in Colchester

The Colchester factory is one of 23 factories worldwide and the company has set a goal to only produce recyclable tubes by 2025. 

Colchester Council leader David King was saddened to hear about the company’s future. 

He said: “This is not unexpected but not good news for the workforce despite many manufacturers have changed their source for packaging.

"It is difficult for us to hear that jobs could be at risk here. We expect the company to look after their workforce if the closure is going to happen.”