Food manufacturers across the United States have announced a series of plant closures and layoffs in recent months, eliminating thousands of jobs and shaking communities that depend heavily on food production. Rising costs, restructuring efforts, and changing consumer demand have pushed several major companies to shut down facilities or scale back operations.
Below are five food factories that have laid off large numbers of employees in recent months (or are scheduled to do so imminently).
#1: Tyson Foods shuts down Nebraska beef plant
One of the largest layoffs came from Tyson Foods, which is closing its beef processing plant in Lexington, Nebraska. The plant was scheduled to cease operations around January 20, 2026, eliminating roughly 3,200 jobs.
The facility had been one of the small town’s largest employers for decades. Tyson said the closure is tied to a declining U.S. cattle supply and rising operating costs.
#2: Del Monte canneries close in California
Canned food producer Del Monte Foods announced the closure of two longtime California canneries in Modesto and Hughson. The shutdowns are expected to take effect in spring 2026, eliminating hundreds of jobs.
More than 570 workers at the Modesto facility alone are expected to be laid off as the company restructures and sells assets following financial challenges.
#3: PepsiCo shutting down California snack facility
Snack giant PepsiCo plans to close a Frito‑Lay distribution facility in Rancho Cucamonga, California. The closure is scheduled for June 6, 2026, impacting about 248 employees.
The company said the move is part of a broader effort to consolidate operations and improve efficiency.
#4: Campbell’s restructures Texas production plant
Food giant Campbell’s also announced layoffs at its plant in Paris, Texas. About 200 workers will lose their jobs as soup production at the facility ends by May 2026.
The plant will transition to producing sauces such as Prego and Pace as part of a companywide manufacturing shift.
#5: ADM announces global workforce cuts
Chicago-based agricultural and food processing company Archer-Daniels-Midland recently announced plans to eliminate up to 700 jobs globally as part of a restructuring initiative rolling out through 2026.
The company said the job cuts are aimed at improving efficiency and reducing costs across its global network of food processing facilities.
Industry facing major changes
The recent wave of layoffs highlights ongoing shifts in the food manufacturing industry. Companies are consolidating plants, investing in automation, and adapting to changing consumer preferences. As those changes continue, more restructuring across the sector may follow.
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