Major Grocery Brand Shuts Down Three Factories, Sparking Community Outcry

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There's some tough news hitting the community as Bimbo Bakeries announces it’s closing three of its factories, including a major one in Auburn, New York. This move has left locals upset and calling for action from officials.

Bimbo Bakeries USA has confirmed that it will be shutting down its Auburn facility, alongside two other locations. The company’s spokesperson explained, “We will transition production to bakeries in our network that are better equipped to support our future growth.” They assured that they’re working to provide support and resources to the affected employees, which is a small comfort in this situation.

The community’s reaction has been one of frustration and sadness. On social media, fans have been vocal about their disappointment. Comments range from calls for city officials to intervene, to heartfelt laments about losing the familiar scent of freshly baked rolls.

Here’s what people are saying:

• “City officials need to do something to fix this,” one frustrated Facebook user posted.
• Another lamented, “Sad to read Auburn is losing this business. One more empty facility in our beautiful city and state.”
• A fifth fan even suggested, “Very sad. Change our leadership people!!!!!!”

Grupo Bimbo’s CEO, Rafael Pamias, has explained that the closures are due to the bakeries being “older and less efficient” compared to other facilities. The affected bakeries only made up less than 2% of the company’s total production capacity. CFO Diego Gaxiola added that the closures are expected to benefit the company financially in 2025.

The announcement hit employees hard. Bill Andre, a business agent with the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers, and Grain Millers International Union Local 116, expressed his shock. “It just hit me like a ton of bricks,” he said. Andre is now working to secure severance packages for those affected, with employees who’ve been with the company for less than a year still set to receive some severance pay.

Auburn’s Mayor, Jimmy Giannettino, has expressed his deep sympathy for those impacted. “My heart goes out to the hardworking men and women who are affected by this closure,” he said. He also voiced disappointment that the company did not reach out to local or state officials to explore alternatives to the closures.

As the community grapples with the loss, officials and residents are left to ponder what steps can be taken to support those who have lost their jobs and prevent further economic distress.

What are your thoughts on this situation? Feel free to share your comments or any suggestions for how the community can respond.