Cape Cod chips production to move as Campbell’s closes Massachusetts site

Campbell’s said it will close its Hyannis, Mass., potato chip plant in April and consolidate production as part of its ongoing snacks supply-chain network optimization — a move convenience services operators should watch because manufacturing shifts can affect fill rates, lead times and item availability across vending, micro markets and pantry programs.

The Hyannis site makes Cape Cod chips and Kettle Brand chips. Campbell’s said Cape Cod chips will not be discontinued and will continue to be produced at the company’s existing snacks plants in the United States, which should help operators maintain continuity on a high recognition brand even as production is redistributed.

The Hyannis plant accounts for about 4% of Cape Cod Chips’ total annual volume, and the closure eliminates the roles of 49 employees, the company said. Production will shift to other facilities in Beloit, Wis., Charlotte, N.C., and Hanover, Pa.

“This difficult decision reflects a careful assessment of our business needs to strengthen our operations and position our Snacks business for long-term growth,” Elizabeth Duggan, president of Campbell’s Snacks, said in a statement.