Milk plant in Los Banos to shut down after nearly 100 years of making dairy products
California Dairies, Inc. — the state’s largest farmer-owned milk cooperative — has closed down a landmark milk processing plant in Los Banos after 99 years in business.
The creamery located on the south side of Highway 152 near H Street had been in operation since 1925 and was first operated by San Joaquin Dairymen. The co-op later merged with Danish Creamery and California Milk Producers in 1999 to become California Dairies, Inc.
The Visalia-based company said in a statement Monday that the plant’s closure was immediate. The plant employed 38 workers and processed milk powder and processed fluids.
Brad Anderson, president and chief executive officer of CDI, said closing the plant was a difficult decision, and one that was not made lightly.
“This decision was driven by the evolving dynamics of the marketplace and shifting milk supplies,” he said. “We value the contributions of our dedicated employees in Los Banos and recognize the impact this has on them and the community. We are committed to supporting them through this transition. The Los Banos plant and its employees will hold a special place in our company’s history.”
CDI plants in Fresno, Tulare and Stanislaus counties
As one of the state’s major milk processors, CDI continues to operate plants in several cities, including Fresno, Visalia and Tipton in Tulare County, and two in Turlock in Stanislaus County.
Owned by nearly 300 dairy operators, the cooperative produces about 40% of California’s fluid milk.
CDI, through its new division Valley Natural Beverages, is also expanding into new products, including extended shelf life milk that can last in a refrigerator for up to 30 days and aseptic/shelf stable ultra high temperature dairy products that can be store at room temperature until opened.
Valley Natural Beverages is constructing a new plant in Bakersfield.
This story was originally published October 29, 2024 at 8:30 AM.
