The ovens will soon be shut down at Entenmann’s Bay Shore plant, costing 178 workers their jobs.
Company officials announced the cuts to employees Thursday after they were summoned to a Hauppauge hotel not far from the plant.
“They told us it’s over, pretty much,” said 36-year employee Dennis Marcus.
Entenmann’s parent company, Bimbo Bakeries USA, said in a statement that it will cease production at the Bay Shore plant in July.
“After a critical assessment, it was apparent… that the facility cannot operate efficiently on a cost-competitive basis with other bakeries in our system,” the statement added.
Bakery production will be moved elsewhere, the company said.
Entenmann’s has been producing cakes, cookies and bread in Bay Shore since 1961. The huge white plant located along Entenmann’s Way has become a suburban fixture.
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“It’s a shame,” said customer Sal DiBona. “You can’t stay on Long Island anymore -- the taxes, the prices of everything.”
Entenmann’s will continue to operate its thrift store, distribution facility and other corporate functions at the Bay Shore site. A spokesman said plans for the plant have not been announced.
“I am still numb, but I can’t say anything about it,” said one worker.
In fact, most Entenmann’s employees refused to comment on the loss of their jobs. Sources said the company threatened workers’ severance packages if they spoke to reporters, a claim an Entenmann’s spokesperson denied.
“I love the company,” said 33-year employee David Schanel. “I raised a family here, two kids. Time to go for interviews.”
