The Farmer John plant, which is the largest employer in the city of Vernon, is set to close next year, KABC News reported June 10.
According to the plant’s parent company, Smithfield Foods Inc., the decision was made due to the “escalating cost of doing business in California.” The company also said it will decrease its sow herd in Utah and is looking at options to exit its farms in Arizona and California.
The company said it will provide transition assistance to all impacted employees, including relocation options to other company facilities and farms, as well as retention incentives.
An estimated 1,800 to 2,500 employees are set to be laid off.