A meat processing facility in Yankton is closing, resulting in the loss of hundreds of jobs.
Cimpl's Meats stopped harvesting operations this week, according to a statement from the plant’s parent company, Wisconsin-based American Foods Group.
The company submitted a notice to the South Dakota Department of Labor stating the move is eliminating 277 jobs.
"We are encouraging employees to apply for positions at affiliated facilities," the notice said.
The closure was first reported by WNAX Radio. American Foods Groups officials said the the location was not profitable and that it would move operations to Missouri.
Cimpl's began as a family-owned business in 1949. It was sold in 1988, and American Foods Groups acquired it in 2005.
Yankton Thrive, a community economic development organization released a statement saying it is both "surprised and saddened" by the closure, calling Cimpl's a "cornerstone" of the community.
"This transition will undoubtedly have significant economic implications for our area; however, our primary concern lies with the dedicated employees and their families affected by this decision," the statement said. "We are committed to assisting those impacted during this challenging period and will collaborate with local organizations to provide connections to necessary support and resources."
The South Dakota Department of Labor is holding a job fair on March 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the National Field Archery Association Headquarters to assist those looking for work after the closure.