BREAKING: Over 130 jobs to be lost in the Midlands as factory announces closure

Over 130 jobs look set to be lost as Leprino Foods Company closes down its cheese factory in Laois.  

Staff were notified of the closure earlier today when management issued letters to the employees.  There are currently 132 employees at the site. 

Leprino Foods Company described the decisions as  “difficult but necessary”  and said it would cease manufacturing operations at its Portlaoise manufacturing plant in the second half of 2026. The facility produces mozzarella and string cheese.

The Leinster Express/Laois Live talked to one staff member who spoke of their financial commitments and those of some other staff members who had recently taken out mortgages. 

Leprino’s Portlaoise facility was established in 2020 to manufacture and supply mozzarella and string  cheese for the EU pizza industry. The facility was built as a greenfield site with production commencing  in 2021.

Laois Independent Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanely said “I am very disappointed to hear that the factory is closing down. It will be a huge loss for the town and those that will lose their jobs.” 

She claimed the “IDA has let us down very badly” in Laois. “It is a huge shock and disappointment for the county,” she added.   

Leprino said their decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of all possible options to improve the financial and operational performance of the Portlaoise site. “Despite considerable efforts, the level of sustainable improvement needed could not be achieved. Closing the site will help ensure that Leprino can remain competitive while optimising its manufacturing footprint to continue meeting the evolving needs of customers,” they stated. 

“We understand the impact this announcement will have on our colleagues, their families, and the local community,” said Chief Executive of Leprino Europe, Paul Vernon. “We want to express our sincere gratitude to the talented team at Portlaoise. This decision does not lessen the value of their hard work or contributions.”

Leprino said it is committed to supporting employees throughout this transition, as well as ensuring continuity of supply for our customers. The company will provide enhanced redundancy packages, career transition assistance, and regular updates to ensure transparency at every stage.

They said production will be moved to other Leprino Europe facilities in Magheralin, Northern Ireland, and Llangefni, Wales.

In parallel, they said they would continue to explore opportunities for the site with any potentially interested third parties.