Hailey
Emporia, Kansas continues to grapple with the economic consequences following the shutdown of the Tyson Fresh Meats facility, one of the city’s largest employers.
As hundreds of displaced workers seek new employment, the city is facing mounting pressure to stabilize its labor market.
KDOL’s May 2025 Report Highlights Rising Unemployment
According to the Kansas Department of Labor’s (KDOL) May 2025 Labor Market Report, Emporia’s unemployment rate jumped to 5.7%, significantly higher than the statewide average of 3.8%.
This represents a sharp increase from 3% in May 2024, clearly reflecting the toll the plant’s closure has taken on the local workforce.
The report also reveals that over 800 workers were employed at the Tyson facility before its closure. The plant, located in Lyon County, had a substantial impact on the region’s employment statistics, contributing over 2.2% of total jobs in the county in 2024.
Tyson’s Departure Leaves a Void in Local Industry
The Emporia Chamber of Commerce confirmed that Tyson Fresh Meats was one of the top employers in the area prior to its closure—only behind major institutions like Simmons Pet Food and USD 253.
The announcement of phased layoffs began in December 2024, with the final employees let go by mid-2025. The facility is now classified as being in a “post-production phase”, and its future remains uncertain.
Unclear Future for the Tyson Facility
As of now, no definitive plans have been disclosed regarding the reuse or redevelopment of the Tyson plant site.
The community remains hopeful, but concerns persist over the long-term economic implications if the facility remains inactive.
Support Services Available for Displaced Workers
To mitigate the impact on former employees, the City of Emporia has activated its Rapid Response Team, providing assistance such as job search help, resume workshops, and career counseling.
According to a city update on June 6, approximately 95% of former Tyson employees have stayed in Emporia, demonstrating a strong desire to remain within the local community.
Find Help Locally
Residents who are still unemployed or in need of job placement support are encouraged to explore the resources available through the City of Emporia.
Local career services and job fairs are ongoing, and job seekers can click here for more information about employment programs in the region.
The closure of the Tyson Fresh Meats plant has significantly disrupted Emporia’s job market, leading to a notable rise in unemployment.
With support from the city’s Rapid Response Team, former employees are being guided through this challenging transition.
However, the long-term economic outlook will depend heavily on new opportunities and redevelopment of the now-vacant plant site.