MIDDLETOWN – Genpak, the company that manufactures polystyrene foodservice containers, is shutting down with the closure expected by August, impacting all 138 employees.
The workers are represented by the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers AFL-CIO Local 2189.
The plant has operated for over 50 years but is closing largely influenced by polystyrene packaging bans in New York and neighboring states.
In 2020, New York announced the expanded polystyrene foam container and polystyrene loose fill ban, which bans the use and sale of single-use polystyrene food service containers.
“Genpak is committed to supporting our affected employees throughout this transition,” said Jeffrey Hebert, Genpak president. “We will collaborate with local businesses and placement services to help find new employment opportunities.”
According to a filing with the New York State Labor Department, the plant closure will start on August 27 and end on December 21.
