US-based flour-milling and ingredient company Ardent Mills has announced the closure of four plants by the first-quarter of next year.

The move follows the company’s analysis of current and anticipated demand, as well as to enhance the efficiency of its network.

Effective 30 June, the company will close its plants located in Macon in Georgia, Loudonville in Ohio, and Red Lion in Pennsylvania, while its facility in Rush City, Minnesota, will be closed in the first quarter of the calendar year 2020.

Ardent Mills CEO Dan Dye said: “These decisions are difficult, especially because of the impact on our valued team members. However, this is a critical step to put greater focus and investment on the rest of our plants.

“Our growth plan calls for strategic investments in our unmatched network of community mills, these changes allow us to grow accordingly and better meet customer needs.”

Ardent Mills noted that it will make every effort to help impacted team members by offering placement at its other locations, as well as career support and other transitional assistance.

The company added that it will continue to operate and make investments in its remaining 35 flour mills across the US, Canada and Puerto Rico.

Additionally, Ardent Mills will work with impacted customers to transition to its other locations.

Dye further added: “Ardent Mills’ vision and values remain the foundation of our organisation and will carry us forward.

“Our dedicated team is committed to working closely with customers, farmers, and suppliers, and bringing innovation to the market with strategic moves like the introduction of The Annex by Ardent Mills.”