Factory closure in Iron County will leave 200 without a job

Iron County’s largest manufacturing company is shutting down. An estimated 200 people will lose their jobs.

Genpak, a food service packaging company, announced that the 25-acre manufacturing facility in Cedar City will close on May 23.

President of Genpak Jeff Hebert said that decreased product demand and an increase in legislation against their styrofoam products are largely the reasons for the closure.  

“Although we must pivot a sector of our operations, we are deeply grateful for the dedicated employees at our Cedar City manufacturing facility,” said Hebert. “They have been an essential part of our success, having served the community for over 30 years.” Hebert said the laid off employees will receive severance packages.

The closure is causing some distress among Iron County residents as it is the second time a major employer has laid off its workers in two years.  In April 2025, Utah Iron shut down its Iron County mine, causing hundreds to lose their jobs. 

Author: Lainey Porter
Photos: Jeff Richards, St. George News
Editor: Hannah Clove
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