Major factory closure in New York to leave hundreds unemployed—Here’s what to know
A major factory in New York is shutting down, leaving hundreds unemployed. Here’s what we know about the closure, its impact, and what’s next for workers.
A major factory in New York is set to close its doors, leaving hundreds of workers without jobs in the latest blow to the state’s manufacturing sector. The unexpected shutdown is expected to have significant economic repercussions, affecting both employees and the surrounding community.
While company officials have cited economic challenges and shifting industry demands as reasons for the closure, workers are now scrambling for answers and alternative employment opportunities. Here’s what we know about the factory shutdown, its impact on jobs, and what’s next for the affected employees.
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PepsiCo to close PopCorners factory in New York
A longstanding manufacturing facility in Sullivan County, New York, is set to shut down, leaving nearly 300 workers without jobs. PepsiCo recently announced the closure of its Liberty, NY plant, which has been producing PopCorners snacks for almost three decades. The layoffs will begin on May 21, 2025, marking yet another major economic hit for the region.
The shutdown will leave nearly 300 workers without jobs. Photo: Tiendamia
As market shifts, rising costs, and industry challenges continue to impact businesses nationwide, this closure reflects a broader trend of financial struggles affecting the manufacturing sector.
Economic struggles force factory shutdown
PepsiCo cited slowing product line growth and industry-wide challenges as the primary reasons behind the plant closure. Despite the facility’s vital role in PopCorners production, the company stated that maintaining long-term operations at the site was no longer viable.
“This plant has played a vital role in producing our beloved PopCorners brand, but the pace of growth for this product line, paired with broader industry trends, has made it difficult to sustain the site’s long-term viability,” PepsiCo said in a statement.
The closure is part of a larger pattern of corporate downsizing, as companies across multiple industries face financial pressure from changing consumer habits, increasing operational costs, and supply chain disruptions.