ONE of Wellington’s biggest employers is expanding its workforce after investing in a new production line which will operate around the clock.  Kdc/one, a global manufacturing firm with a factory in Wellington, will grow its local 300-strong workforce to meet a boom in business.

The manufacturing giant has invested in a ‘state of the art’ shaving gel production line which will see the Swallowfield factory operate day and night and help secure the future of the business in the town.  A spokesperson for the firm told the Wellington Weekly News the changes marked a ‘significant’ investment, with more to come. They said:  “Kdc/one, which develops and manufactures products for global beauty and personal care markets, has invested in a new state-of-the art aerosol shave gel production line and will be making further significant investments at its UK manufacturing plant in Wellington, Somerset.

“The company, which is headquartered in Longueuil, Canada, and acquired the manufacturing business from Swallowfield plc in 2019, is currently recruiting for additional production operatives to support increasing business at the Wellington operation.  “The multi-million-pound aerosol investment will cement further the company’s position as a global market leader in the production of personal care aerosols.

“In addition to aerosols, the site, which employs some 300 people currently, produces a vast range of personal care products for major brands covering fragrance, body care, hair care and deodorants.”  The move is part of a wider upgrade of the site, which will see a ‘potentially hazardous’ asbestos roof replaced and solar panels fitted on the factory, a move kdc/one said would ‘futureproof’ the site.

Jane Fletcher, president of Kdc/one Europe told the Wellington Weekly the investment marked a ‘milestone’ for the firm:  “These two developments are both significant milestones for the business. Firstly, it increases our aerosol production capacity and our market leading reputation in this product segment to support future growth of the business, which is of real benefit to our local community as we are a major employer in the area. 

“Secondly, sustainability is driving both the way we approach our operations and consumer purchasing decisions all over the world. As the products we develop and produce are in most homes across the world, it’s crucial that we do everything we possibly can to ensure that we are climate conscious for the brands we serve.

“The upgrading of the site, introduction of new modern insulation and solar panels to a building that was built some 70 plus years ago will ensure it is fit for the future.” 

The expansion follows a meeting at Wellington Rugby Club between Kdc/one representatives and local residents living close to the factory where the firm heard complaints about noise pollution affecting households on Springfield Road.