If implemented, the proposed closure will result in the loss of approximately 290 roles and workers at the Clay Lake facility have been put into a formal consultation process. In a statement, the company said its immediate priority is to support these colleagues through the process, including exploring redeployment opportunities “wherever possible”.

According to the company, the proposal reflects its focus on building a “simpler, more efficient operating model to support long-term growth, continued investment in innovation and technology, and accessible pricing for customers in a competitive food market”. Adding that since opening in 2022, its Warrington site has received “significant and sustained investment” designed to support recipe choice and increasing personalisation of customer orders at scale.

The company said it is now considering moving to a simplified single-site manufacturing model to improve efficiency.

Timo Boldt, founder and CEO of Gousto, said in a statement: “This is an incredibly difficult proposal given the impact on our colleagues in Clay Lake, who have contributed enormously to Gousto’s journey over a number of years. In a highly competitive food market, it is however essential that we operate as efficiently as possible so that we can continue to invest in our proposition and keep prices as low as possible for customers.”

“While this reflects the evolution of our operations, it does not make the impact on colleagues any easier.”

He continued: “Over recent years we have invested heavily in Warrington, building a highly advanced fulfilment hub with the technology, scale and capacity for future growth. That investment has transformed the way our network operates and gives us the opportunity to simplify our manufacturing footprint for the future.

“While this reflects the evolution of our operations, it does not make the impact on colleagues any easier. Our focus now is on supporting people through this process with care, respect and practical help.”