Major food and beverage companies are set to cut hundreds of jobs this month

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, resulting in 123 layoffs on September 16, 2026. The company filed a WARN notice in July announcing the planned workforce reduction. The plant-based food manufacturer opened the Stanwood facility just a few years ago, but the company is now consolidating its operations.

The closure is another setback for the plant-based food sector, which has faced weaker demand and financial challenges in recent years.

Nature’s Bakery cutting 130 jobs

Mars is also preparing to eliminate jobs at its Nature’s Bakery manufacturing facility in Hazelwood, Missouri. The first 130 layoffs are scheduled for September 11, with another 215 positions expected to be eliminated in February 2027.

The Hazelwood plant will continue operating through 2026 before permanently closing in September 2027. Manufacturing is being transferred to other Nature’s Bakery facilities.

Pilgrim’s Pride to eliminate 315 jobs in Tennessee

Pilgrim’s Pride is preparing to close its Chattanooga, Tennessee, facility, eliminating 315 jobs on September 25, 2026, according to a state WARN notice. The poultry producer is consolidating its operations as it shifts production to other facilities. The closure represents one of the largest food-industry workforce reductions scheduled for September in Tennessee.

Summary

These September layoffs reflect the continued pressure facing food and beverage companies as they adjust their operations, consolidate facilities, and respond to changing market conditions. While some closures are part of broader restructuring efforts, they will still have a significant impact on workers and communities that have relied on these facilities for jobs.