More than 20 jobs could be set to go at an Arla Foods dairy processor in Lockerbie.
The farmer-owned company is planning to transfer a proportion of its butter operation to a factory in Westbury.
Speaking about the announcement, South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth stated: "I am deeply concerned at the prospect of 22 job losses in Lockerbie.
"There has been a lot of investment in the plant in recent years and it is hugely important for the many local farmers whose milk goes to the site.
"But most importantly it is a major employer in the Lockerbie area.
"Any jobs losses will be a tragedy for those affected and a real blow to the local economy at what is a very uncertain time for many companies.
"If any of the current workforce do have to leave, I will be strongly urging Arla to avoid at all costs compulsory redundancies."
'Minimise the impact'
Arla Foods have stated that they will be entering into full consultation with colleagues affected by the proposal.
The company still plans to produce Scottish butter and whey butter at its Lockerbie plant.
They also said that it hopes they will be able to transfer 12 employees to other vacant positions at the Lockerbie site.
Jim Grieve, site director at Arla’s Lockerbie site said: "We are looking to minimise the impact of the proposal through a variety of measures.
"We hope to be able to transfer 12 colleagues to other vacant roles at our site, as well as look at whether we can fill vacant positions at other Arla sites, including Westbury. At the same time, we are considering applications for voluntary redundancy from the site.
"We are committed to doing everything we can to support our colleagues at this time."
