Unite, Britain and Ireland’s largest union, said today (Thursday 12 March) that JD Egberts Kenco had retracted its proposal so that ‘meaningful negotiations’ can be held between now and October.

Unite has about 300 members at the Ruscote Avenue site that produces the Kenco Tassimo and Millicano brands.

Unite national officer for the food industry Joe Clarke said: “Unite and the management had constructive talks yesterday (Wednesday 11 March) and we reached agreement on a new memorandum.

“This highlights a firm commitment from Unite to engage constructively in a dialogue to ensure the future sustainability of the Banbury site, with a view to increase efficiency and make the plant more productive in line with its European counterparts.

“In return, the company has retracted its ‘dismissal and reengage’ proposal and both parties have now entered into negotiations to reach our collective goals. These talks will continue until October.

“We believe we have laid the foundations for a harmonious industrial relations’ framework moving forward.”