Dothan takes another hit - bakery closure to cut 128 jobs | News

DOTHAN, AL (WSFA) - Less than a month after PEMCO's announcement to close its Dothan plant and lay off more than 250 people, another employer has announced plans to cease operations in the Circle City. The Bimbo Bakery's Sara Lee Bakery in Dothan in plans to close by May 21, 2012 leaving an additional 128 people without work.

The announcement was made Thursday afternoon by Bimbo Bakeries USA. The company says they found it "necessary to address the aging facility that made it difficult to compete in the marketplace."

“We value and respect our associates and will assist them in taking the next steps to help ease them through this transition,” said Kevin Williams, Regional Vice President of Operations for BBU’s Southeast region.

In a release issued by the company it states that human resources representatives will meet with employees and union representatives to discuss severance and other benefits, as well as resources available to assist them.

With the closure of both PEMCO and the Bimbo Bakery, more than 380 people will soon be forced to find other means of employment. Several companies including AIDT and KFH Industries have announced plans to set up shop or recruit in Dothan. However, it is unclear if these companies will be able to fill the employment gap left by PEMCO and Bimbo.