Leprino Foods, the world’s largest mozzarella producer, is set to close its East Plant located in Lemoore, California, in early 2026.
The closure will result in the loss of over 300 jobs.
The company, which supplies cheese to major pizza chains like Domino’s, Pizza Hut, and Papa John’s, announced the closure in late 2024 to provide employees ample time to seek new employment opportunities. In a statement to media at that time, the company said:
“This decision is influenced by several factors, including the facility’s age, anticipated capital requirements to make improvements to the facility and add or replace equipment and systems, high operating costs in California, the long-term milk supply outlook, and the increased capacity due to the opening of our Lubbock, Texas facility,”
Leprino Foods has been a significant player in the dairy processing industry, with the Lemoore plant serving as a key site for mozzarella production. The closure of this 115-year-old facility marks the end of an era for the Central Valley community, which has relied on the plant for both employment and economic stability.
While the company has not publicly disclosed the reasons for the closure, it is part of a broader trend of businesses reevaluating operations in California. The decision underscores the challenges faced by manufacturing sectors in the state, including regulatory pressures and economic considerations.
As the closure date approaches, Leprino Foods is expected to work closely with local officials and employment agencies to assist affected workers in transitioning to new jobs. The company remains committed to maintaining its position as a leading supplier in the global cheese market.
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