Dairy Farmers of America to Cease Manufacturing Operations at Goshen Plant
Source: DairyNews.today
Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) will shutter the manufacturing segment of its Goshen, Indiana, plant early next year, resulting in the loss of approximately 40 jobs. The decision, announced on Thursday, comes as DFA reassesses its operations in response to changing market conditions.
Kim O’Brien, spokesperson for DFA, stated that the manufacturing portion of the facility, located at 1110 S. Ninth St., will be idled starting January 2. However, the plant’s warehouse segment will remain operational, focusing on technical support for DFA’s broader network of facilities.
Strategic Decision Amid Changing Market Dynamics
“The decision was driven by potential long-term shifts in milk production and product demand across the nation,” O’Brien explained. “As part of our efforts to optimize capabilities within our plant network, this step was necessary to ensure operational efficiency.”
The milk previously processed at the Goshen facility will be redirected to other nearby DFA production sites, ensuring continuity in milk handling.
Support for Affected Employees
Acknowledging the impact on employees, O’Brien praised their contributions:
“The employees at the facility have done an excellent job producing dairy ingredients, and we appreciate all their hard work and dedication. We are committed to helping them navigate this transition.”
DFA plans to provide resources and support to affected workers during the closure process.
Commitment to Farmers’ Interests
O’Brien also emphasized DFA’s broader responsibility to its farmer-members:
“This was a difficult decision, but we have a duty to operate financially sound businesses that maximize returns for our family farmer-owners. The milk volume currently received at the Goshen plant will continue to find a reliable home within our network.”
While the closure marks a significant change for the Goshen plant, DFA’s focus remains on aligning its operations with evolving industry trends. The decision highlights the ongoing challenges faced by dairy cooperatives in balancing market demands, operational efficiency, and member interests.
Strategic Decision Amid Changing Market Dynamics
“The decision was driven by potential long-term shifts in milk production and product demand across the nation,” O’Brien explained. “As part of our efforts to optimize capabilities within our plant network, this step was necessary to ensure operational efficiency.”
The milk previously processed at the Goshen facility will be redirected to other nearby DFA production sites, ensuring continuity in milk handling.
Support for Affected Employees
Acknowledging the impact on employees, O’Brien praised their contributions:
“The employees at the facility have done an excellent job producing dairy ingredients, and we appreciate all their hard work and dedication. We are committed to helping them navigate this transition.”
DFA plans to provide resources and support to affected workers during the closure process.
Commitment to Farmers’ Interests
O’Brien also emphasized DFA’s broader responsibility to its farmer-members:
“This was a difficult decision, but we have a duty to operate financially sound businesses that maximize returns for our family farmer-owners. The milk volume currently received at the Goshen plant will continue to find a reliable home within our network.”
While the closure marks a significant change for the Goshen plant, DFA’s focus remains on aligning its operations with evolving industry trends. The decision highlights the ongoing challenges faced by dairy cooperatives in balancing market demands, operational efficiency, and member interests.
