A longtime food production facility and major employer in Quinte West is closing.
Nestle Canada has confirmed it will shut its Trenton plant in stages, starting at the end of this year and fully close by the middle of 2022, leaving close to 200 employees out of work.
In a statement, Nestle says it was a difficult decision to close the plant and that it “in no way reflects the performance of our dedicated team members who work tirelessly to provide the highest quality products to our consumers.”
The plant has been in operation in Quinte West since 1973 and was expanded in 2010 and 2011, providing workers with well-paying jobs and benefits.
An employee, who spoke to Quinte News on condition of anonymity, says workers were sent home today after being notified of the impending closure.
Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison says he was made aware of the decision on Thursday and calls it a “sad day for a great employer” in the city.
“They’re telling me today that what they’re producing here is not needed. They can produce it in the US at a plant they have that’s not producing up to its ability, so that’s why they’re moving. I assume it’s part of COVID which has hit many areas, especially the food industry.”
He also noted the impact the closure will have on other local businesses which provide products and transportation services to the plant.
Harrison says Quinte West will work with government officials and others to try and quickly find a replacement business.
You can read the full statement from Nestle by clicking here.
