Demand for protein rich cottage cheese spurs Wisconsin plant conversion, layoffs

A market demand for cottage cheese is driving the temporary closure and conversion of a cheese plant in Trempealeau County, resulting in temporary layoffs for its workers.

A news release from Associated Milk Producers Inc. said the transition project will include a period of production downtime while the plant converts from producing cheddar cheese to making cottage cheese. AMPI issued a layoff notice on Jan. 30 to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, stating that temporary layoffs would begin on March 31, 2026, and last until the transition project is completed in the fourth quarter of 2026. The plant is expected to reopen in early 2027.

AMPI President and CEO Sheryl Meshke noted that the company is working with impacted employees to provide access to resources, training, and opportunities to apply for jobs at other AMPI facilities...

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Ken Notes: Soon our region will be home to the only two cottage cheese plants in Wisconsin. Westby and Blair will keep Wisconsin on the map for cheese production.