Canada-based Saputo Inc. announced plans to close four of its facilities—Wetaskiwin and Glenwood (Alberta), Canada, New London, Wis., and Hancock, Md. Current production will be integrated into other Saputo facilities.

The first facility closure is scheduled in May 2014 and the last closure will occur in December 2015. In all, approximately 180 employees will be impacted. These employees will be provided with severance and outplacement support, and some will be offered the possibility of transferring to other Saputo locations.

Over the recent years, Saputo has maintained efforts to pursue additional efficiencies and decrease costs while strengthening its market presence. The announced measures are part of the company's continual analysis of its overall activities.