The transition will unfold over 12 to 18 months, with the Indianapolis site serving as a new Centre of Excellence. CEO Curtis Frank cited declining volume in the plant protein category and underutilized manufacturing capacity as the primary drivers for the move. He noted that maintaining three separate facilities created structural costs that were no longer sustainable for the business.

While the company will move production to Indiana, it maintains that the decision does not signal an exit from the plant protein market. Instead, management views the consolidation as a necessary step to sharpen competitiveness and align with the company's 2030 financial goals. During the phased shutdown, Maple Leaf Foods intends to provide transition support to employees at the affected Washington and Massachusetts locations.