THE WHAT? Contract manufacturer KDC/One has confirmed plans to close its long-standing Swallowfield cosmetics site in Wellington, Somerset, and transfer production to Scotland.

THE DETAILS The company first proposed the closure in November 2025 and, following consultation, has now decided to move production volume to its facility in Irvine, Scotland later in 2026. The Somerset factory has operated for around 150 years and is considered one of Wellington’s largest employers. Local officials described the decision as a significant blow to the town and its workforce.

THE WHY? The closure reflects continued operational consolidation across manufacturing, as suppliers seek to optimise capacity and reduce costs by concentrating production at fewer sites. For the local economy, the move is expected to create major disruption, given the factory’s historic presence and employment impact in the area.

Source: BBC