SMITHFIELD -- Smithfield Packing says its closing its Portsmouth plant and moving production to Kinston, North Carolina in early 2013.
The Portsmouth plant employs about 425 hourly and salaried workers to produce hot dogs and lunch meat.
"We deeply regret having to close this facility. We recognize that layoffs and plant closings are difficult for everyone concerned. But at the same time, we believe this is a necessary business decision. We are committed to our workforce and will work diligently to transfer as many employees as possible to our other operations in North Carolina and Virginia," said Tim Schellpeper, president of Smithfield Packing.
Company officials says the facility which was built in the 1970s, doesn't meet changes in manufacturing technology and product development.
Some employees will be offered jobs elsewhere and the company will negotiate with union officials about potential opportunities, according to a company release.
Jermaine Fields is one of the employees who will be out of a job.
"You have people in here with 20 or 30 years and all they know is hot dogs and bologna," Fields commented.
Smithfield Packing says it will provide employees with a 90-day notification of the plant closure, as required by federal law.
Employee Myra Cherry is trying to keep her head up.
"The man said they've got to move on, so we have to move on ourselves," said Cherry.
