The future of 300 farmers, 4 550 factory workers, 2 000 permanent farm workers, and countless seasonal workers hangs in the balance. This, as the search for a new buyer for the Ashton and Langburg Fruit Factory continues. The factory owned by Tiger Brands will remain open for another season, but what happens after that remains a mystery for now.
“In addition to the 4 550 workers at the factory, this decision will secure the livelihoods of the farmers, more than 2 000 permanent workers, and countless seasonal workers that also depend on the facility. But the threat is not over; this is a temporary reprieve, not a permanent solution as of yet.”
Agri SA executive director, Christo van Der Rheede told Food For Mzansi that a permanent solution had not been found.
“I don’t think they found a buyer yet, but according to Tiger Brands, they are still open for engagements should a buyer be interested. That is where we are at this moment,” he said.
Agri SA has been a key player in working with other stakeholders to find a favourable outcome for the Western Cape fruit canning factory.
A beacon of hope for Ashton
Van Der Rheede believes the factory has been important for the Ashton community members because many workers depend on the factory. Also, many farmers depend on the factory for markets.
The closure of the factory would be great devastation to those who depend on it for income. In the meantime, hopes for a suitable buyer remain high as Tiger Brands continues its search.
“I don’t think Tiger Brands at this point in time is contemplating to close the factory down. They are rather looking for a buyer,” said Van Der Rheede.
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Negotiations to be concluded
Tiger Brands communication officer Azure Fey confirmed to Food For Mzansi that operations at its deciduous fruit business, Langeberg and Ashton Foods, would be extended for a further season.
The company also indicated that the sale process, which first commenced in 2020, had been reopened as it continues to assess all options.
“The business will continue in its current form for the forthcoming season while we continue to assess all options to enable the continued operation of the Langeberg & Ashton Foods business in a sustainable manner in the interest of all stakeholders, including our employees, suppliers, and the surrounding community,” added Fey.
She explained that the 2023/2024 season continuation is conditional on all stakeholders (suppliers, growers, and our workforce) working together as per the past season to reach an agreement on commercial terms to ensure a viable business for the forthcoming season.
“We will be engaging with all stakeholders to conclude these negotiations prior to 30 June 2023 to ensure that the company is mandated by the Tiger Brands board to order the tinplate for the new season,” Fey said.
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