Michigan braces for another factory closure as another iconic brand bows out

Another day, another announced factory closure.

(Are we winning yet?)

And, yet again, the loser is Michigan – this time with Utz announcing plans to shut down a factory in Grand Rapids, triggering 75 layoffs.

(If the name “Utz” isn’t ringing a bell – they make chips and snacks under brand names including On the Border, Zapp’s, Golden Flake, and – of course – Utz.)

The closure will follow a two-step pattern that’s pretty familiar to longtime observers. First the manufacturing part of the plant will shut down, effective January 30th, 2026 – and then they’ll close down the warehouse by May 26th, too.

If you have encouragement, advice, thoughts, or job leads to share with these 75 poor folks who will soon be job hunting – please share in the comments.