The proposed sale of Prince’s Gate Water by Nestlé to private equity firm Platinum Equity has prompted concern from the GMB union, which is urging that employees’ pay, benefits and working conditions remain fully protected throughout the ownership transition.
The transaction follows a period of significant restructuring at Nestlé. Earlier this year, the food and beverage company announced plans to reduce its UK workforce by more than 450 positions. While Nestlé is expected to retain a substantial interest in Prince’s Gate Water after the sale, the change in ownership has raised questions about the future of the business and its employees.
Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Secretary, said the union has seen previous examples where private equity ownership has led to pressure on employment terms as firms seek to improve financial returns. She stressed that workers at Prince’s Gate Water should not experience further uncertainty after an already challenging period.
The union has called on the new owners to safeguard existing employment conditions while continuing to invest in the long-term success of the bottled water business. GMB also said it intends to work constructively with Platinum Equity to ensure Prince’s Gate Water remains both commercially successful and a secure place to work.
The transaction highlights the growing debate over the role of private equity in the food and beverage sector, where operational efficiency and financial performance must be balanced with the interests of employees and long-term business sustainability.