Blending and warehouse operations will be moved to Sydney, resulting in as many as 30 redundancies at Leeton.

Leeton mayor Paul Maytom said it was devastating news for the employees.

“Our concern is for the workers and their families,” Councillor Maytom said.

He said council was shocked by the announcement on Friday.

“This is a bolt from the blue from us because Friday was the first confirmation to us that something was happening at the Berri plant,” Cr Maytom said.

He said council prided itself on maintaining close relationships with businesses in the district.

“We always feel we would like to be informed,” Cr Maytom said.

“We understand companies do this, but I want to let the community know we were not aware of any changes that were going to occur at this site.”

Daily Drinks Co managing director Charmaine England said Leeton would become a centre of excellence for fresh produce processing.

Redeployment opportunities across Lion’s broader Lion business, including relocation assistance, will be available, where appropriate.

“Any decision that results in job losses is highly regrettable,” Ms England said.

“These changes are no reflection on the people working at our sites – the hard work and contribution they have made to our business over many years is very much appreciated.”

Cr Maytom said while he was disappointed for the employees, he was pleased the company was investing $28 million to modernise the Leeton and Smithfield manufacturing sites.

He said this was welcome news for district growers.

“These are upgrades that will give confidence to our growers going forward,” he said.

Cr Maytom said he believed the employees would have good prospects of finding alternative employment.

“We have a lot better position with water this year than we have in some time,” he said.

“That will build confidence that augers well for a good future with cotton and rice.

“With the current allocations and possible increases, it’s going to mean there will be more opportunities created out there," Cr Maytom said.