News Summary
Harvest Sherwood Food Distributors has announced the layoff of 172 employees in Florida as it prepares to close its Opa-locka facility. The layoffs will impact both Miami and Orlando locations, raising concerns over job stability in the region. Employees will remain on the payroll until the shutdown is completed by April 21, 2025. The reasons behind the closure remain unclear, but it follows a trend of job losses in South Florida as companies file WARN notices in 2025.
Opa-locka & Orlando Affected by Job Cuts as Harvest Sherwood Food Distributors Shuts Down Operations
In a significant move that’s sure to impact many residents, Harvest Sherwood Food Distributors has announced it will be laying off 172 employees in Florida, affecting both Miami and Orlando locations. The company’s decision comes as they prepare to close their large 150,000 square-foot facility located at 12345 N.W. 38th Ave. in Opa-locka.
Where Are the Job Losses Happening?
The layoffs will see 131 workers from the Miami facility and 41 workers from Orlando affected. The shutdown process began this week, with the expectation that everything will be wrapped up by April 21, 2025. In a bit of a silver lining for those affected, all employees will remain on the payroll until the shutdown wraps up, as indicated by the February 18 Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice.
What Led to the Closure?
As of now, the WARN notice did not shed light on the reasons behind the closure of the facilities in Opa-locka and Orlando. However, this is not the only setback for Harvest Sherwood. Recently, the company also had to close a facility in Portland, which resulted in the layoffs of another 96 employees.
Company’s Background and Operations
Harvest Sherwood Food Distributors has been a staple in the food distribution industry since its founding in 1969. Headquartered in various locations—including Detroit, Atlanta, Cleveland, and Chicago—the company specializes in distributing meat and dairy products to both retailers and wholesalers.
The layoffs have brought attention to a concerning trend within the region. In just the first part of 2025, a total of six South Florida companies have filed WARN notices, indicating a troubling wave of job losses. This highlights a growing concern about the stability of jobs in the area, leaving many wondering what the future will hold.
The Legal Requirements
Under federal law, businesses with 100 or more employees are required to file WARN notices when they plan on closing facilities that impact at least 50 employees. It is a measure designed to give some notice and support to the workforce that will be affected, providing a semblance of security and time to prepare for new employment opportunities.
In Summary
As the shutdown of Harvest Sherwood Food Distributors moves forward, the impact on the local communities will undoubtedly be felt. Job losses of this magnitude are not just numbers; they signify a loss of income, stability, and community engagement for many families. Whether individuals will find new job opportunities or will be forced to seek employment in other industries remains to be seen. For now, all eyes are on the unfolding situation and the implications it will have for the livelihoods of those in Miami and Orlando.
This is a developing story, and as more details emerge about the business closures and the search for new opportunities grows, the local communities are hoping for a turnaround in the job market.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WSVN: Thousands line up for food distribution at Jose Marti Park
- Local 10: Thousands of Miami residents to be served during annual holiday food distribution
- Miami Herald: Harvest Sherwood Food Distributors shutting down operations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Distribution
- Google Search: Harvest Sherwood Food Distributors
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
