DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — The Quaker Oats factory in Danville is closing permanently.
The company confirmed to WCIA the news of the closure Wednesday.
“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.”
The Quaker Oats Company
The company shared the statement with WCIA after telling its employees in a series of meetings Wednesday.
WCIA obtained a letter from the company’s HR department saying the facility located on Voorhees Street in Danville will close June 8. The letter estimates more than 510 employees will be laid off due to the closure.
Local Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union leaders have also sent out a letter to employees detailing transition benefits.
Danville community responds
Vermilion County Works posted on their Facebook page they are offering one-on-one assistance to those affected the Quaker Factory’s closure to help resume updates and improving interview skills. To make an appointment with Vermilion County Works, the organization asks to call 217-442-0296, ext. 110.
Danville Mayor Rickey Williams Jr., Vermilion Advantage CEO Mike Marron, Danville and Vermilion County Works Director Chuck Jones issued a joint statement Wednesday afternoon.
“Today, we learned that after 65 years of production in Danville, Pepsico will close Quaker Oats effective June 8, 2024. 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, Vermilion Advantage, Danville Area Community College, and Vermilion County Works are collaborating together to ensure that Quaker employees and their families have the support that they need. We are currently updating a list of local job opportunities and discussing training opportunities that will help them transition into other roles in the community. Most other businesses in town need additional skilled workers, and Quaker employees are known for their hard work and commitment to excellence. Our hope is to connect great workers to great employment opportunities. Together, we will weather this storm.”
Vermillion Advantage also has shared its job board for workers at the Quaker Oat facility.
Comments