THE BOSS of the GlaxoSmithKline factory at Coleford has described the sale of the the Ribena and Lucozade brands as "an extremely positive outcome" for the 500 people who work there.

Site director Dave Morley said: "This is an important day and an extremely positive outcome for Coleford.

"It is anticipated that employees in Great Britain and Ireland working on Lucozade and Ribena, including employees at Coleford, will transfer to Suntory Beverage and Food under UK employment laws.

"We are looking forward to the future and this new venture that will give us the opportunity for potential growth of the iconic Lucozade and Ribena brands.

"The Coleford site has had a positive contribution to the performance of Lucozade and Ribena.

"We have seen the brands perform well over the past few months and this is testament to the commitment of our employees."

Forest MP Mark Harper said he wants to meet the new owners to discuss future investment in the Coleford factory.

GSK announced on Monday (September 9) it was selling the brands to Japanese firm Suntory Beverage and Food – makers of Oasis and Orangina – to concentrate on its core pharmaceuticals business.

Mr Harper said: "I have kept in touch with GlaxoSmithKline since they announced their intention to sell the business.

"On the face of it, this looks a positive move. I understand the new owner is looking to grow the business worldwide, which is positive news for the existing employees.

"I will look to meet the new owners in due course to understand their plans for the business and to argue for more investment and jobs to be located at the Coleford plant."

GSK said the "vast majority" of employees at the site, and those working on Lucozade and Ribena in commercial and research and development functions, will be offered transfers to Suntory when the firm takes over at the end of the year which is subject to regulatory approvals.