Kelvion is closing its factory on Frankport Way in Fareham today, cutting the jobs in a move that a union says will “significantly” hurt the local economy.

The company confirmed to the Echo that they were only keeping a small number of research and development and sales department workers on in the market town.

Kelvion, which builds heat exchangers and dry coolers for multiple industries, such as supermarkets and power stations, is moving production to Świebodzice in Poland.

Union reps negotiated enhanced redundancy packages when it became clear that Kelvion was intent on moving work abroad, according to Unite regional officer Malcolm Bonnett.

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Mr Bonnett said: “Ending production at the site is nothing short of a betrayal of these workers by Kelvion. It brings to an end a proud 100-year-old history of manufacturing and will significantly impact the local economy.

A spokesperson for Kelvion said that a “comprehensive transition plan” for the Fareham part of the business had been developed and proposed.

The spokesperson continued: “Kelvion is committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure an orderly relocation of the Fareham site and to minimise the impact on our employees, customers, public administrations, and suppliers.”

“Kelvion will honour all legal and economic obligations derived from signed contracts relating to current ongoing projects.”

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The Fareham branch of Kelvion celebrated 100 years of continuous trading in 2021.

Founded as the Searle Radiator Company in 1921 in London, the company grew, opening a second factory in Fareham in the late 1930s.

It contributed significantly during World War II by producing vital parts for the Royal Air Force, contributing components to the fastest bomber of the era, the De Havilland D98.

The company eventually ventured into refrigeration, securing exclusive rights to market equipment across Europe and Africa by the early 1950s.

The company became part of various groups over the years, losing the Searle name and joining the Kelvion group when it was acquired by Triton Investment LLP in 2014.