Utz Plans Grand Rapids Facility Closure by 2026

Utz Brands, Inc. announced the closure of its Grand Rapids, Michigan manufacturing facility, with the shutdown process beginning in August 2025 and expected to be completed by early 2026, including warehouse operations ending in May 2026. The closure is part of Utz’s strategic plan to consolidate its manufacturing footprint from eight to seven plants, aiming to increase operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance automation capabilities by shifting production to larger and more efficient facilities across the U.S. Employees affected by the closure have been notified via a WARN notice and will be offered transition assistance such as on-site job fairs and severance pay if relocation is not possible. Despite the closure, Utz reported a 2.9% increase in net sales in its second quarter of 2025 but experienced a significant decline in net income and adjusted EBITDA. CEO Howard Friedman described the decision as necessary for long-term operational excellence and expressed confidence in the company’s growth trajectory amid ongoing geographic expansion. The Grand Rapids facility was acquired in 2021 through Utz's $41 million purchase of Festida Foods and has produced various snacks under the Utz portfolio, including TGI Fridays and Zapp's brands.