McCain Extends Job Opportunities to Workers Affected by Connell Plant Closure

In the wake of Lamb Weston’s decision to close its potato processing plant in Connell, McCain Foods is offering career opportunities at its Othello facility to the affected workers. 

The closure will result in the layoff of approximately 379 employees as part of Lamb Weston’s broader strategy to reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency. 

Jeff Naegle, Plant Manager at McCain’s Othello site, expressed support for those impacted by the closures in a statement issued on October 2.

Jeff Naegle:

"We have heard the news on the recent Lamb Weston closures in Washington state - including the processing facility in Connell and the hashbrown line in Warden. We know this is a difficult time for all impacted individuals."

Naegle reaffirmed McCain’s commitment to the local community, highlighting ongoing investments. Jeff Naegle:

"On behalf of the Othello Leadership Team, I wanted to take this opportunity to restate our commitment to this team, this site, and the state of Washington. McCain Foods continues to invest in Othello - in our technology, in safety enhancements, and in our people through development opportunities."

Lamb Weston, based in Eagle, Idaho, is a leading global producer of frozen potato products. The company announced the Connell plant closure as part of a restructuring initiative that also involves temporarily curtailing certain production lines. This effort is projected to save approximately USD 55 million in pre-tax costs during fiscal 2025.

The layoffs are expected to significantly impact Connell, affecting more than 7% of the town’s population. Connell Mayor Lee Barrow expressed concern over job losses and estimated a USD 500,000 hit to the community’s roughly USD 20 million annual budget, The Spokesman-Review reported. 

Despite these challenges, McCain Foods is taking steps to support the local workforce. 

Jeff Naegle:

"As a member of this community, McCain Othello wants to support the local economy as best we can."

He encouraged those affected by the closures to explore job opportunities through McCain’s careers website. 

Lamb Weston’s financial performance has been under pressure, with net sales declining by 1% and net income dropping by 46% in the first quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to the previous year. The company attributes these declines to reduced demand for frozen potato products from restaurants.