Bimbo Bakeries USA (B.B.U.) will cease operations at its bakery in Nashville, Tenn., by Jan. 14, part of an ongoing consolidation that includes the closing of plants in Easton, Pa.; Elk Grove, Calif.; and Wichita, Kas. The Nashville bakery, which produces bread and buns and currently employs 96 associates, will shift production to other B.B.U. bakeries in the company’s manufacturing network.
“This was a difficult decision because of the highly capable team of associates at the Nashville bakery,” said David Tormena, regional vice-president of operations for B.B.U.’s Mid-Atlantic region. “However, after an extensive assessment, we concluded that the age of the equipment and building and the outdated level of technology make the bakery unable to compete effectively in the marketplace going forward.”
The company acquired the plant as part of its acquisition of the North American Fresh Bakery business of Sara Lee Corp. that closed in November 2011. The plant makes bread and buns under the Colonial, Iron Kids and Grant’s Farm brands, according to the 2013 Directory & Buyers Guide published by Sosland Publishing Co.
Bimbo said the closing is not expected to impact its customer service, associate positions outside of the bakery or the availability of its fresh-baked products, which will continue to be distributed across the state.
