Hundreds of workers are facing layoffs as an Illinois Quaker Oats plant shuts down for good.

 

According to a statement from city officials, the Quaker Oats factory located in Danville, Illinois, will close down on June 8, 2024, after 65 years of production.

Approximately 510 workers will be laid off due to the plant closure.

 

“The business has already ceased production but will continue to pay their employees through that time. While this shocks and saddens us, we will unite as a community to help those who have lost their employment,” the City of Danville said.

The company provided a statement to WCIA explaining the reason for the closure:

The Quaker Oats Company announces that we are permanently closing our facility in Danville, IL. Following the Quaker recall in December 2023, we paused production at the facility. After a detailed review, we determined that meeting our future manufacturing needs would require an extended closure for enhancements and modernization. In order to continue the timely delivery of Quaker products trusted by consumers since 1877, we determined production would need to permanently shift to other facilities. We do not make this decision lightly and recognize the impact it will have on our employees, their families, and the Danville community. We have notified our workforce and are working closely with our employees and local community officials to provide a supportive transition.”

 

In December 2023, Quaker Oats granola bars and granola cereals were recalled for possible Salmonella contamination.