Another food and beverage manufacturer is reducing its U.S. footprint. Refresco, one of the world’s largest independent beverage manufacturers, is permanently closing an Ohio production facility this summer, a move that will eliminate dozens of jobs and reflects the ongoing challenges facing the manufacturing sector.
Carlisle plant to shut down
According to a WARN notice filed with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Refresco will permanently close its manufacturing facility in Carlisle, Ohio. Manufacturing operations were expected to cease on or about June 24, with warehousing ending around July 11, after which the facility will be permanently closed.
63 jobs will be affected
The closure is expected to eliminate 63 positions, although approximately seven employees have been offered transfers to other Refresco locations. According to the company, affected workers will also be offered severance packages, on-site job fairs, and resume-writing assistance to help with their transition.
Company cites costs and customer needs
In its WARN filing, Refresco said the decision followed an extensive review of its manufacturing network. The company cited high operating costs and changing customer needs as the primary reasons for discontinuing production at the Carlisle facility.
Refresco manufactures and bottles beverages for many of the world’s leading retailers and consumer brands, producing products ranging from soft drinks and bottled water to juices, teas, sports drinks, and energy beverages.
Beverage industry continues to adapt
The closure comes as food and beverage manufacturers continue adjusting their operations in response to shifting consumer demand, rising production costs, and efforts to improve efficiency. While Refresco remains one of the largest independent beverage bottlers in the world, the Carlisle shutdown highlights the difficult decisions many companies are making as they optimize their production networks.
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