Around 130 jobs could be lost after the Leprino Foods Company said it will close its manufacturing plant in Portlaoise in the second half of next year.
The Co Laois factory produces mozzarella and string cheese.
Leprino on Tuesday said it made the “difficult but necessary decision to cease manufacturing operations at its Portlaoise manufacturing plant in the second half of 2026”.
“This decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of all possible options to improve the financial and operational performance of the Portlaoise site. Despite considerable efforts, the level of sustainable improvement needed could not be achieved,” a statement noted.
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“Closing the site will help ensure that Leprino can remain competitive while optimising its manufacturing footprint to continue meeting the evolving needs of customers.”
Paul Vernon, chief executive of Leprino Europe, added: “We understand the impact this announcement will have on our colleagues, their families, and the local community.
“We want to express our sincere gratitude to the talented team at Portlaoise. This decision does not lessen the value of their hard work or contributions.”
Production will be transferred to other Leprino Europe facilities in Magheralin, Northern Ireland and Llangefni, Wales.
Siptu representatives are due to meet with senior management at Leprino Foods in Portlaoise on Wednesday.
Terry Bryan, Siptu Industrial Organiser, said: “Our immediate thoughts are with our members and their families following this shocking announcement this afternoon.
“We have already been in contact with the company and have confirmed that we will meet with them tomorrow to discuss the full implications of the decision.
“We will engage with the company directly to see if we can lessen the impact of the decision upon our members and their families, and try to explore alternatives to the proposed job losses.”
Mr Bryan said the company is “a significant employer in the Portlaoise and midland area, employing 130 workers”.
“It has only been in operation since 2020 and is a modern, state-of-the-art facility. This is both a shocking and regrettable announcement,” he said in a statement.
“Siptu’s focus and concern is for our members and our members’ families at this difficult time.”
Leprino started as a family-owned business in Denver, Colorado in the United States in 1950. It is now one of the largest producers of mozzarella in the world.
The company employs around 5,500 people globally and exports its products to over 80 countries. Its European headquarters is based in Cheshire in England.
