PepsiCo to Close Liberty Plant

PepsiCo has announced the closure of its manufacturing facility in the Village of Liberty, NY, where it produces PopCorners brand snacks. The plant, formerly known as Ideal Snacks, has been a staple in the community since the late 1990s before PepsiCo acquired the brand around 2018. The closure will result in the loss of approximately 300 jobs, significantly impacting local workers and businesses.

Sullivan County Legislator Louie Alvarez (District 6) expressed deep concern over the decision, particularly its effect on Liberty’s close-knit Hispanic community. “Most of them have made their life here—this is their home. Their kids go to school here, they buy food here, they own homes here. This is going to hit us very hard,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez highlighted the contributions of Hispanic residents to Liberty, noting their involvement in local events and businesses. He also warned that the closure would have a ripple effect on Main Street, where many of the affected workers support local restaurants and shops.

PepsiCo cited challenges in sustaining the plant’s long-term viability due to the brand’s rapid growth. In a statement to Radio Catskill, the company acknowledged employees’ contributions, saying, “This decision does not diminish the value of their hard work and dedication. We are working closely with our employees and local community officials to provide a supportive transition.”

Village Liberty Mayor Joan Stoddard and county legislators plan to discuss potential strategies to mitigate the economic impact. “We’ll be talking about this at our upcoming meetings to see what can be done,” Alvarez said.

Sullivan County Legislature Chair Nadia Rajsz, Town of Liberty Supervisor Frank DeMayo and Village of Liberty Mayor Joan Stoddard jointly issued the following statement on the closure Wednesday, February 19:

“We are deeply concerned about PepsiCo’s decision to shutter their Liberty food manufacturing facility, which has been an integral part of our community for decades and employs hundreds of locals. This action will have many impacts, which we intend to sort out with PepsiCo’s assistance in the coming weeks.

Sullivan County, the Town of Liberty, the Village of Liberty and partners like the Chamber of Commerce and Partnership for Economic Development will be assisting the impacted workers in every way we can, including by providing needed services to individuals and families, and offering the full support of our Center for Workforce Development in keeping our residents locally employed.

While this news appears devastating at this time, all of us – as a united community – will work hard to meet this challenge and provide a better future.”

Image: PepsiCo, one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies, has long been a significant employer in the region. The company owns major brands such as Frito-Lay, Quaker, Gatorade, and Tropicana, generating more than $70 billion in annual revenue. Credit: Patricio Robayo/Radio Catskill