Ferrara to close Chicago plant, lay off over 150 workers

· Agriculture & Food · United States

Ferrara, maker of Laffy Taffy and Jelly Belly, plans to shut its Chicago plant and lay off more than 150 workers, with the closure expected in April 2027. The company said the decision comes as it assesses market conditions and its long-term innovation plans. The plant shutdown is one of the more concrete signs of manufacturing consolidation among US confectionery makers in the current period, and it will affect the local workforce in Chicago.

Why it matters：Confectionery plant closures show how candy makers are trimming fixed costs as they weigh innovation spending, a pattern that affects contract manufacturers and local suppliers.

Key points

  • More than 150 workers will be laid off.
  • The closure is expected in April 2027.

Sources (original reporting)

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