A closure-threatened cheese making factory in Newcastle Emlyn in Carmarthenshire could have new owners soon, BBC Wales has learned.Owners Saputo confirmed the company is in negotiations with Dairy Partners of Wales for the sale of the plant.
It is uncertain how many of the 67 workers at the factory will be offered jobs.
Canadian company Saputo announced in February that it wanted to close its only factory in the UK.
It said the decision was taken due to lack of profitability at the plant.
The plant produces mozzarella cheese.
Sandy Vassiadis, spokesperson for Saputo said: «I wanted to confirm that we are in advanced stages of negotiations with Dairy Partners of Wales for the sale of our Newcastle Emlyn plant.
«Both parties intend to finalise an agreement shortly.»
Dairy Partners added: «We are in exclusive negotiations with Saputo about the Newcastle Emlyn facility and will be in a position to give more details in the near future.»
Assembly member Rhodri Glyn Thomas told BBC Radio Cymru that he understands the new company would employ around 20 workers initially, before expanding at a later date.
A 30-day consultation period with the 67 current workers was announced in February, and it is understood that 28 of those are taking voluntary redundancy or early retirement.
Mr Thomas said he had been speaking to Business Minister Edwina Hart to see whether it is possible for the Welsh government to support the new company to employ more workers, or to retrain those facing redundancy.
Source: BBC
