Popular tourist attraction and iconic factory to close after 40 years in Massachusetts; dozens lose jobs

One of Massachusetts’ most recognizable snack food facilities is shutting down after more than four decades in operation, ending an era for a brand closely tied to Cape Cod tourism and local identity. The move impacts dozens of employees at the plant, which has been operating for over 40 years.

Campbell’s closing Hyannis chip plant

The Campbell’s Company announced on January 29, 2026 that it would close its Cape Cod Potato Chips manufacturing plant in Hyannis, Massachusetts. The facility was set to cease operations in April 2026 as production shifted to larger plants in other states. 

The plant produces both Cape Cod Potato Chips and Kettle Brand chips. Campbell’s said the closure impacts 49 employees, who will receive separation benefits and job placement assistance. 

Cape Cod chips were founded in Hyannis in 1980, and the current manufacturing site has operated since 1985. The company became part of Campbell’s after the snack giant acquired Snyder’s-Lance in 2018. 

Why the facility is shutting down

Campbell’s said the Hyannis location only produced about 4% of the brand’s total chip volume and “no longer makes economic sense” to operate. Production will be moved to facilities in Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. 

Company executives described the move as part of a broader effort to modernize and streamline the company’s snack manufacturing network.

Industry analysts say food manufacturers across the country are increasingly consolidating production into fewer, larger facilities to reduce costs and improve efficiency amid inflation and slowing consumer spending.

End of a Cape Cod landmark

For decades, the Hyannis plant served as both a manufacturing site and tourist attraction. Visitors once watched chips move through the production line and received sample bags at the end of tours, though public tours stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic and never returned. 

While the chips will continue to be sold nationwide, the closure means Cape Cod Potato Chips will no longer be made on Cape Cod itself.

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