Campbell’s to consolidate potato chip production in US plant
This consolidation is part of an ongoing snacks network optimization strategy with operations scheduled to cease in April 2026.
USA – The Campbell’s Company has announced plans to close its Hyannis, Massachusetts plant, the smallest in its snacks network by size and volume, and shift potato chip production to more efficient facilities.
Campbell’s framed the decision as a continuation of its strategy to simplify manufacturing footprints and improve operational efficiency across its Snacks business, while pledging to maintain investment in the region through community partnerships and culinary program support tied to the Cape Cod brand.
The facility, operational since 1985 and producing Cape Cod and Kettle Brand chips since Campbell’s 2018 acquisition of Snyder ‘s-Lance, accounts for just 4% of Cape Cod’s annual volume, making it economically unviable amid network-wide growth.
Operations will cease in April 2026, with production relocating to modern plants in Beloit, Wisconsin; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Hanover, Pennsylvania, enhancing agility while upholding quality standards for premium ingredients.
This consolidation reflects Campbell’s broader snacks supply chain transformation, prioritizing investments in high-capacity sites to fuel long-term growth and improve return on invested capital.
Elizabeth Duggan, President of Campbell’s Snacks, stated, “This difficult decision strengthens our operations… We remain committed to supporting affected employees and the Cape Cod community through separation benefits, job placement, and local culinary programs funded by The Campbell’s Foundation.”
The closure impacts 49 employees, who will receive comprehensive assistance, including guidance from state programs, as the company balances efficiency with workforce support.
Campbell’s Snacks portfolio, including Cape Cod, Kettle Brand, Late July, and Snyder’s of Hanover, drove significant fiscal 2025 net sales, underscoring the strategic imperative of optimization.
Parallel efforts include US$230 million in capital investments through 2026 for aseptic soup lines, additional Kettle production in Hanover, tortilla chips in Wisconsin, and Goldfish expansion in Utah, creating over 210 new roles.
These moves align with industry trends toward streamlined manufacturing amid rising snack demand and supply chain pressures.
By honoring Cape Cod’s Hyannis heritage, where the brand began in 1980, while modernizing, Campbell’s positions its snacks division for sustained competitiveness in a dynamic market.
This optimization supports foodservice and retail partners with reliable, high-quality potato chips, reinforcing US leadership in savory snacks.
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