EMPLOYEES at the Alton branch of Geodis United Carriers are reeling from shock following news that the company is to close.

The announcement, which hit Òlike a bomb shellÓ informed the 40-strong workforce that as from January 31 they would be out of a job.

The local team will be among more than 1,000 employees nationwide, shattered by the failure of the French-owned Geodis Group to turn the company around.

Operating out of AltonÕs Mill Lane depot for many years, United Carriers was purchased by Geodis almost three years ago in a last-ditch attempt to save it from going under.

Since then the yellow livery of the Geodis United Carrier vehicles has become a familiar sight on local roads.

Offering a general delivery service, according to driver Kevin Beech, the vehicles were used within the UK to transport anything from chemicals to fairy dolls and bicycles.

But, while recognising that times might be tough, Geodis had invested a lot of money in the vehicles and in upgrading their depots and closure was the last thing the Alton workforce expected.

ÒPrior to Christmas we all received a bonus. We had no idea that this was going to happen,Ó said Mr Beech who is upset more than anything by the lack of advanced notice.

ÒWe have been given less than 30 days to get used to the idea of being out of a job and to plan for the future. Many of the staff working at the Alton depot are in their mid to late 50s and live in the local area. They donÕt want to start travelling out of the area to find a job,Ó said Mr Beech.

In a statement this week Geodis UK managing director Jean-Marie Dutoya sought to provide an explanation. ÒDespite continual investment by the group since its purchase of United Carriers a significant downturn in volumes, coupled with increasingly challenging industry parameters, have seen the business become unviable.

ÒWe very much regret the site closure and subsequent job losses in Alton and will be playing an active role in supporting our employees through this difficult period.Ó

He concluded: ÒOver the coming weeks, we will be talking to all affected employees at Alton and giving them every assistance, where appropriate, in the search for alternative employment.

ÒAs many employees as possible will be offered other positions within the Geodis group of companies. However, at this extremely challenging time, our thoughts and efforts are directed towards those affected employees and their families.Ó