Emporia, Kansas, is bracing for a significant economic challenge following Tyson Foods’ announcement to close its local meat processing plant, resulting in the layoff of 809 employees. City Manager Trey Cocking described the development as a substantial “setback” for the community.
Details of the Closure
On December 2, 2024, Tyson Foods filed a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) with the Kansas Department of Commerce, indicating the impending closure of its facility at 2101 West Sixth Street in Emporia.
The plant is scheduled to cease operations by February 14, 2025. This decision is part of Tyson’s broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency by consolidating processes into fewer locations.
Notably, a significant portion of the operations from the Emporia plant will be transferred to Tyson’s facility in Holcomb, Kansas.
Impact on Employees and Community Response
The closure affects 809 workers, with approximately 200 employees expected to be offered positions at other Tyson locations, including the Holcomb facility.
Tyson Foods has expressed its commitment to assisting affected employees by encouraging them to apply for other roles within the company and collaborating with state and local officials to provide additional resources.
City Manager Trey Cocking emphasized the community’s resilience and the collaborative efforts underway to support displaced workers.
Local organizations, including the City of Emporia, Lyon County, the Regional Development Association, Emporia Main Street, Emporia Chamber of Commerce, Flint Hills Technical College, and Emporia State University, are coordinating to offer resources, job placement assistance, and training opportunities to those impacted.
Economic Context and Historical Perspective
The Emporia plant has been a significant employer in the region. In 2008, Tyson transitioned the facility from cattle slaughter operations to food processing, resulting in a workforce reduction of over 1,000 employees. In 2020, the company ended its cold storage operations at the plant.
The current closure is part of a series of shutdowns by Tyson Foods, including six U.S. chicken plants and a pork plant in Iowa since early 2023, attributed to market challenges such as a declining cattle population and increased livestock processing costs.
Community Initiatives and Future Outlook
In response to the closure, several initiatives have been organized to support affected workers:
- Unemployment Benefits Events: Scheduled sessions at the Lyon County Fairgrounds Bowyer Community Building to assist employees with unemployment benefits and provide information on available resources.
- Job and Resource Fair: Planned for January 8, 2025, at the Lyon County Fairgrounds, aiming to connect displaced workers with potential employers and support services.
Local leaders remain optimistic about Emporia’s economic resilience. Efforts are focused on attracting and retaining diversified industries to promote growth and prosperity for residents.
The community’s united response underscores a commitment to navigating this transition and building a stronger future.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Announcement Date | December 2, 2024 |
| Closure Date | February 14, 2025 |
| Number of Employees Affected | 809 |
| Operations Transferred To | Holcomb, Kansas facility |
| Employee Support Measures | Job placement assistance, training opportunities, collaboration with state and local agencies |
| Community Response | Coordinated efforts by local organizations to support displaced workers |
Why is Tyson Foods closing the Emporia plant?
Tyson Foods is closing the Emporia plant as part of its business strategy to operate more efficiently by consolidating operations into fewer facilities.
How many employees are affected by the closure?
The closure impacts 809 employees working at the Emporia facility.
What support is available for displaced workers?
Tyson Foods is encouraging affected employees to apply for other roles within the company and is working with state and local officials to provide additional resources. Local organizations are also offering job placement assistance and training opportunities.
