Simplot Delays Plant Closing Due to Demand

NAMPA, Idaho (AP) — J.R. Simplot Company is delaying the closure of a southwest Idaho potato processing plant. Company spokesman David Cuoio tells the Idaho Press-Tribune that unexpectedly high product demand will keep the plant in Nampa open past a previously announced Oct. 31 closing. Cuoio says a French fry processing line and packaging line is expected to run through November, and a second processing line will run through the rest of the year.

Simplot is consolidating operations by closing three plants in the region with an expected loss of 800 jobs. The plants are being replaced by a new plant in Caldwell that will employ about 250 people and can produce the same output as the three other plants combined.