The pickle producer for the Vlasic brand, described the reason behind the move was to consolidate production and focus on its “branded Vlasic business and de-emphasize its lower-margin, un-branded pickle business.”
Business transition
The owner of the Duncan Hines grocery, Birds Eye Frozen and Specialty Foods divisions said it would meet with union officials at the Millsboro facility, which opened in 1972, to discuss specifics of the transition.
Local media reported around 200 jobs would be affected but the firm said all employees would have the opportunity to apply for open positions at other Pinnacle facilities.
Tony Fernandez, executive vice president and chief supply chain officer at Pinnacle Foods Group, said it was never an easy decision to close a plant.
“We came to this conclusion only after a detailed analysis of all potential options, which determined that the Imlay City plant is the most viable choice for the long term.
“The employees in Millsboro have been a valued part of our business and their dedication and contributions to the company are appreciated.”
Michigan upgrade
Pinnacle Foods said they would be investing to increase capacity, upgrade existing manufacturing capabilities and efficiencies at their Imlay City plant, resulting in the creation of full-time and seasonal jobs.
The New Jersey based firm employs around 4,300 people and was ranked number 799 in Fortune Magazine’s 2011 top 1000 companies, which is judged by revenue, earlier this month.
The company said it took the decision to close its Millsboro, Delaware site to “further improve the efficiency of its supply chain” and move operations to one plant in Imlay City, Michigan.
