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According to a Heinz spokesman, the marketers most likely to be at risk are based at Hayes in Middlesex, Liverpool, London and Paris.

The six- to nine-month business review will involve several brands in the UK, including Weight Watchers, Linda McCartney, John West and Aunt Bessie's.

Heinz told Marketing that it was looking at 'all options', including selling the brands, overhauling their organisational structure or axing them completely.

As well as affecting staff working on the brands and the central marketing team, the review will hit a number of ad agencies, although Heinz would not give details.

Leo Burnett handles advertising for John West and Weight Watchers meals and desserts. Aunt Bessie's, which Heinz markets with Tryton Foods, is handled by Euro RSCG. WCRS works on Linda McCartney, although the account has been dormant for several months.

The review is part of Heinz' strategy to focus on ketchup, condiments and sauces, food service, infant nutrition and ready meals and snacks.

Its European operations make up 40% of total sales, but have seen a fall in profits.