Workers in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Shakopee, Minnesota, face uncertainty as Maker’s Pride announced on March 12, 2024, that it will cease operations at both manufacturing facilities. The closures are part of a broader initiative aimed at modernizing the company’s manufacturing network and increasing investment in advanced automation. Both plants are expected to close by the third quarter of 2026.
In a statement, CEO Darlene Nicosia emphasized that the decision “was not made lightly.” She framed the wind-down as a strategic move to position Maker’s Pride for sustainable growth. The company plans to offer transition resources to affected employees, although local officials had not publicly commented on the matter at the time of the announcement.
Details of the Closure Announcement
According to a company release, the shutdowns are scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2026. The statement identified Jennifer Kraft, the company’s chief legal officer, as the media contact for further inquiries. The Salt Lake City facility is listed in federal food safety records maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), while the Shakopee operation appears on manufacturer lists associated with federal food programs and certification registries.
Maker’s Pride emerged from the Chapter 11 restructuring of Hearthside, launching as a new brand in 2025. This rebranding was part of a financial reset aimed at reducing debt and enhancing operational focus. Previous reports have indicated that the restructuring also involved plant closures, including the shutdown of a facility in Anaheim in 2025, as documented by Food Business News.
Implications for Workers and Local Communities
As the timeline for the closures unfolds, impacted workers, suppliers, and local workforce agencies are poised to seek clarity regarding detailed closure schedules and any potential Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) filings. Maker’s Pride has previously filed WARN notices in other states during its restructuring efforts, including a notice in Idaho in January 2026, according to the Idaho Department of Labor.
Although the company has reiterated its commitment to providing transition resources, it has not disclosed the number of jobs that will be affected at the Salt Lake City or Shakopee plants. The forthcoming months will be crucial for the workforce and local communities as they navigate the implications of these closures and look for potential avenues for reassignment or severance.
The announcement marks a significant shift in the manufacturing landscape for both cities, raising concerns over local employment and economic impact as Maker’s Pride aims to streamline its operations for future growth.
