FRESH food distributor Coolchain plans to shed up to 100 staff.

The firm, which has a large warehouse and packhouse at Teynham and a depot in Sheerness, says the packing side is no longer required because of changes in the market.

It plans to amalgamate distribution work at Teynham. Most jobs will go on in packing. It is hoped everything will be completed by the beginning of April.

A spokesman said: "It's not part of our core business and it will go out elsewhere."

Swale Borough Council and the unions have been informed.