In January 2016, Cargill will close its plant in Lititz, PA on Broad Street and shift this production to more modern and efficient plants in Mount Joy, Lititz (West Lincoln Avenue) and Hazleton, PA; Milwaukee; and Ontario, Canada. The company said it will centralize its North American cocoa and chocolate leadership, administrative and customer-focused roles in Milwaukee and Minneapolis. Previously these functions were based in Lititz and other locations throughout North America. Minneapolis is home to Cargill's corporate headquarters and this move will bring its North American Cocoa and Chocolate business closer to the company's vast administrative, research and development and marketing resources.
As a result of these changes, approximately 130 jobs, mostly those working at the plant in Lititz, will be eliminated. Approximately 30 other employees will be reassigned or offered relocation options for positions at one of Cargill's other North American cocoa and chocolate sites.
“These are very difficult decisions, especially when they involve people who have done such great work for us over the years,” said Bryan Wurscher, Cargill cocoa and chocolate North America president. “We are committed to helping those who are impacted find other employment and assist them with this transition.”
The Lititz plant is also the home of the historic Wilbur Chocolate Candy Americana Museum and Candy Store. According to Cargill the museum and store will remain open.