Core Points - Valeo Foods is closing its UK confectionery facility in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, as part of a strategic transformation review aimed at improving business performance [1][3] - The closure will affect 134 out of 196 employees at the site, which produces various confectionery products including Barratt brand's Anglo Bubbly bubblegum [2][5] - The decision is intended to strengthen Valeo's position as a leading private label confectionery supplier and improve operational efficiency [3][4] Company Operations - The Pontefract site will wind down operations over the next year, with production being moved to other Valeo locations [1][4] - The company has ten manufacturing plants in the UK, and the closure will follow a phased plan for transferring manufacturing activities and relocating office-based employees [5] Management Commentary - Valeo's UK CEO Kevin Moore acknowledged the difficult nature of the decision and its impact on employees and the local community [3][4] - The company conducted a thorough review of options to continue manufacturing at the site but found the necessary investment for long-term sustainability unviable [4]