Food distributor to lay off 157 in Fort Wayne
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A food wholesale distribution company headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island has announced plans to end its warehousing and office operations in Fort Wayne. In a notice to the state, UNFI Wholesale Inc. said the move would result in the layoffs of 157 workers.
UNFI provides a variety of grocery, health and beauty, and wellness products—as well as distribution and logistics services—to retailers across the country.
A spokesperson for the company told Inside INdiana Business the company made the decision to close its warehousing and office operations and restructure its transportation operations in Fort Wayne as part of an ongoing evaluation of its distribution network.
“[We] will transition customers and suppliers currently serviced out of Fort Wayne to nearby, modernized distribution centers in our network,” the spokesperson said. “Following this transition, our customers will gain access to a broader product assortment, including more fresh options, and our suppliers will be able to reach customers more efficiently.”
The layoffs are scheduled to take place on Feb. 14, 2025, according to the notice filed with the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
Some of the affected workers are represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 414. The union employees will receive severance packages provided for in their contract, according to the spokesperson.
Non-union employees will receive severance in accordance with the company’s severance plan.
“These changes will impact associates in operational and administrative roles, though we will retain a number of drivers as part of our restructured transportation operations in Fort Wayne,” the spokesperson said. “We are grateful for the many contributions team members at this facility have made and are committed to working with all those affected by this transition in the best way possible.”
The company said it expects the move in Fort Wayne to be permanent.