The state administration reaffirmed today that Britannia Industries will not leave the state and would continue to produce locally.
Amit Mitra, main economic adviser to main Minister Mamata Banerjee, stated today that Britannia is committed to continuing production in West Bengal and would like to strengthen the firm in the state.
The explanation is necessary after press reports indicated that the industry was ceasing manufacturing in the city. Even the social media was buzzing over the topic.
Against the backdrop of concerns that Britannia would abandon its production in West Bengal following the closure of its Taratala unit, Mr. Mitra, quoting Varun Berri, executive president and managing director of Britannia, stated that Britannia is committed to continuing production in West Bengal.
"Britannia is dedicated to continuing its production in West Bengal. The Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,200 crore biscuit manufacturing plant will remain in the state, which is one of India's major markets," Mr Mitra said, citing Mr Berri.
Putting aside concerns about the company relocating its production elsewhere, the chief economic adviser to the chief minister told reporters that Mr. Berri has reaffirmed his commitment to West Bengal and has told him that the company intends to grow its biscuit business in the state from strength to strength.
Mr Mitra also stated that the company's registered office in Kolkata will remain in the city. Mr Berri is reported to have informed Mr. Mitra that the company's shareholder meeting would also be held in Kolkata.
Mr. Mitra further stated that Mr. Berri informed him that he and his staff would visit Kolkata upon his return from abroad and attend a meeting to discuss the company's future plans.
The shutdown of the Taratala factory, which ceased operations in May, has impacted 122 permanent employees and an estimated 250 contractual workers who have been working there for decades.
