Novelis is also closing its Bridgnorth foil rolling and laminating operations and will consolidate most of the business into its other European operations.  More than 200 employees will lose their jobs.

The aluminimum firm previously announced (December 2010) that it would close its Bridgworth plant by the end of April.

Novelis said that the move will improve the competitiveness of the company’s European foil and packaging production systems in response to overcapacity and increased competition from manufacturers in low-cost countries.

Discovery Foils managing director Steve Westwood told Packaging News: “This announcement is great news for the local area. Bridgnorth is a small town and to keep 100 jobs in the area is good for the area. We are delighted for the employees who have worked very hard, even after their jobs have been under threat for the last six months.

“We also still have to spare a thought for the colleagues who will be losing their jobs in six months time.”

He said it was an exciting time for the company. He explained: “The Bridgnorth team have built a reputation for first class delivery of high quality printed foil over many years.

“The highly skilled and customer focused team will continue to service our customers to the same excellent level that they are accustomed to.”

Novelis Europe packaging general manager Pierre Labat said: “We are very pleased we have found a sustainable solution for the confectionery foil operation and its employees.

“Whereas multi-colour printing is not a core activity for Novelis, it is a good strategic fit for the owners of Discovery Foils who have other interests in the printing and packaging business.”

A Novelis spokesman told Packaging News added: “Most of Novelis’ key markets are strongly growing on a worldwide basis. We are in a growth mode and we will focus on premium products such as automotives, consumer electronics and beverage cans.”