Geest is rumoured to axing 150 jobs as part of a streamlining operation.

The fresh produce giant is thought to be restructuring its business following its takeover by Icelandic prepared food specialists Bakkavor in May this year.

The company recently paid £44 million for prepared veg and salad producer Hitchin Foods.

The Wigan-based business, which employs 750 people, was snapped up as part of Bakkavor’s plans to strengthen its position in the prepared market.

No-one was available for comment at Geest.