A popular candy company has announced it will lay off some employees starting in June. The layoffs follow the company’s decision to shut down its corporate and commercial offices in Fairfield. The impacted employees will be eligible for relocation benefits.
Jelly Belly to Lay Off 69 Employees in Fairfield
According to a WARN notice received by Fairfield Mayor Catherine Moy, Jelly Belly will permanently lay off 69 employees. The layoffs will begin in June and will be completed by the end of 2026. The cuts will not affect manufacturing, warehousing, or visitor center jobs in Fairfield.
The announcement follows the brand’s decision to cease corporate and commercial operations in Fairfield. The layoffs affect corporate offices near the One Jelly Belly Lane campus, including buildings at 2400, 2500, and 2385 N. Watney Way. Despite the decision, the company will continue making candy, warehousing, and offering tours.
Reason Behind the Decision
Ferrara Candy Company acquired Jelly Belly Candy Company in late 2023. The layoffs are part of Ferrara’s previously stated restructuring plans following its acquisition. According to Fairfield City Manager David Gassaway, these reductions were expected.
Ferrara previously indicated workforce reductions were likely following the acquisition. Ferrara said it does not plan to close the Fairfield factory and will continue operating the brand there.
What’s Next for the Employees and Fairfield
The layoffs are permanent and will affect 69 of the facility’s 374 employees. The impacted employees will be eligible for relocation benefits to other Ferrara facilities. The Fairfield staff and the Workforce Development Board will also help these employees land new jobs and get retrained.
The layoffs follow other recent changes in Fairfield, including the closure of Anheuser-Busch’s plant. However, the mayor also shares good news amidst all this. Some companies have shown a healthy interest in buying the Budweiser plant, building expectation among many in the community.
While the layoffs mark a significant transition for the company, local officials are working closely to support affected employees through their next step.
