By: Xolani Khumalo
The African People’s Convention (APC) has raised concerns over packaged goods company Tiger Brands’ decision to sell its Beacon confectionery business, warning that the transaction could threaten jobs and local manufacturing.
Party spokesperson Lucas Mphaka says the proposed sale may have far-reaching implications for factory workers, suppliers, transport operators and small businesses that form part of the Beacon value chain.
Mphaka says the APC is particularly concerned about the potential impact on employment and the future of local production capacity. He has called for firm guarantees that jobs will be protected throughout the transaction process.
The party has also urged government, organised labour and competition authorities to closely scrutinise the sale to ensure that workers’ interests are safeguarded and that the deal does not undermine South Africa’s manufacturing sector or broader economic development objectives.
