News

Garelick Farms reportedly closing Lynn plant

LYNN, Mass. — Garelick Farms, a dairy company that began in 1928, is closing its plant in Lynn.

The farm will call off its milk, orange juice and soft serve ice cream production this fall.

The closure is going to have a huge impact on not just the 300 employees now without jobs, but on revenue in Lynn. Garelick Farms is the seventh largest employer and the plant has been an economic contributor for the last 90 years.

"It’s a part of history going down the tubes actually,” Kendrick Doyle, an employee at a business next door to the plant, said. "I was surprised because I've known people who have been there for over 30 years."

The plant closure means all 28 schools in Lynn will have to find a new supplier of milk, property tax revenue will decrease, and revenue from water and sewer use will also take a hit - all as the city is trying to revitalize its economy.

What started as West Lynn Creamery in 1928 was taken over by Garelick in the late 90s.

Lynn Mayor Thomas M. McGee was also taken by surprise at the news.

“Sadly, the only way were able to reach out to them is to a 1-800 number to an office in Texas. I've had no response. Disheartening to say the least that they would announce their decision this way," said McGee.

Doyle said the move makes everyone wonder what the future of the area holds.

“It makes you think about we have Walmart, what’s gonna be next?” Doyle said.

Boston 25 News also tried contacting Garelick and had no luck.

The doors are expected to close in October.