The food and beverage industry is heading into September with several major workforce reductions already scheduled, affecting hundreds of workers across multiple states. Some of the cuts are tied to plant closures, while others come as companies restructure their manufacturing operations. Plant-based food maker to eliminate 123 jobs No Meat Factory is preparing to close its manufacturing facility in Stanwood, Washington, [...]
Cracker Barrel-owned chain to close 16 restaurants as Ohio conversion begins
A popular breakfast chain is disappearing as its parent company exits the brand, with Ohio set to play a key role in the transition. Cracker Barrel has announced it is selling Maple Street Biscuit Company to Kentucky-based Biscuit Belly LLC, ending its ownership of the fast-casual breakfast chain. As part of the deal, 35 Maple Street locations will be acquired and converted into Biscuit Belly restaurants over the next 18 to [...]
Popular grocery chain recalls frozen blueberries after E. coli illnesses reported in eight states
Publix shoppers are being urged to check their freezers after a recall was issued for a popular frozen blueberry product linked to multiple cases of E. coli illness. The recall affects a single lot of GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries sold at Publix stores in eight Southern states after reports of consumers becoming sick. Health officials say the product may be contaminated with E. coli O145:H28, a strain that can cause [...]
Popular burger chain closes longtime Kansas restaurant as location cuts continue
Five Guys has closed another longtime restaurant, marking the latest in a series of location reductions for the popular burger chain as it continues to reshape its footprint across the U.S. The latest closure affects a restaurant that had served customers for nearly 16 years, adding to a growing list of Five Guys locations that have shuttered in recent months. Oak Park Mall location closes after nearly 16 years The [...]
Popular fast-casual chain lays off workers after closing 15 restaurants amid financial turmoil, payroll issues
Beef-a-Roo has laid off employees and closed 15 restaurants as the Midwest fast-casual chain struggles with mounting financial problems, leaving many workers uncertain about their futures and waiting for overdue paychecks. The sweeping cuts affect locations across multiple states and mark one of the most significant restaurant workforce reductions announced this month. Eight restaurants permanently close The Rockford, [...]
Costco is making shopping faster and easier with several new member-focused upgrades
Long checkout lines have long been one of the biggest frustrations for Costco shoppers, especially during weekends and peak shopping hours. Now, the warehouse retailer is rolling out a series of technology upgrades designed to make shopping more convenient, both inside its warehouses and online. New technology is speeding up checkout Costco executives say recent technology investments are already improving the [...]
