Up to 200 jobs could be axed from a Sussex company.

The Parker Pen Company has today informed employees of a number of changes amongst its manufacturing and support functions at its base in Newhaven.

The company has confirmed that operations at the site will continue with production of the Parker Pen brands, and it has also announced its intention to downsize a number of roles.

A formal consultation process will begin today with the proposal that this will lead to a reduction in employee numbers at the Newhaven site of around 200 people.

Spokesman Jim Haggerty, director of The Parker Pen Company said: "This has been a difficult proposal to make and is no reflection on the highly-valued work performed by our employees.

"In fact, the quality of the manufacturing at the site was key in the decision to maintain production of the most popular lines in the UK.

"I would like to assure all affected employees that they will be treated with utmost respect at all stages of the process.

"The Parker Pen Company will ensure that affected staff receive terms that exceed statutory requirements, plus access to support, as well as an outplacement program to assist in identifying alternative employment.

"The Parker Pen Company is transforming into a marketing-led company and investing more in branding and product innovation."

Do you work at The Parker Pen Company? How will you be affected? Call Rachel Pegg on 01273 544533 or leave your comments below.