Tyson Plans to Shut Down Ponca City Plant

Associated Press

PONCA CITY, Oklahoma - Tyson Foods says it will close a meat processing plant in Ponca City in a move expected to affect about 580 workers.

The Springdale, Ark.-based company announced the closing Friday, saying it will give workers 60 days notice. The company says the closing process will begin in late May and be completed at the end of the summer.

Tyson says it plans to shift production to other facilities in New York, Iowa and Texas. The plant produces a variety of deli-style lunch meats and ham products and has been operating in Ponca City since 1995. Tyson says it is looking for a buyer for the facility.

Tyson officials are expected to meet with workers in the next several weeks to discuss other employment opportunities within the company.