Marshfield, Wisconsin – A central Wisconsin manufacturing facility could face permanent closure, potentially impacting more than 100 employees, according to a recent filing with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD).
Officials at Prince Corporation, which produces custom and private-label wild bird seed and agricultural seeds, say the company’s future is uncertain following a court-supervised receivership process.
Potential Plant Closure and Mass Layoffs
The company submitted a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) letter indicating that the Marshfield facility may close, and a mass layoff could occur as early as February 19, 2026, depending on the outcome of the receivership.
The WARN letter notes that if the company’s assets are not sold as a going concern, or if a buyer does not retain all employees, the closure could result in the permanent elimination of all 107 positions. Approximately 80 jobs are based in Wisconsin, while the remaining positions in Illinois and Indiana could also be affected.
Company Operations and Uncertainty
Prince Corporation specializes in the manufacturing of wild bird seed and agricultural seed products, serving both private-label and custom markets. Company officials acknowledged that the situation could change if the facility is purchased and continues operations, which may prevent some employees from being laid off.
In its communication, the company emphasized the uncertainty:
“We regret having to make this decision; however, business and industry circumstances leave us no alternative.”
Legal and Federal Considerations
The WARN letter also explained why employees were not given earlier notice of the potential closure. The company cited exceptions under the federal WARN Act, including:
- Unforeseeable business circumstances
- Faltering company provisions
- Liquidating fiduciary considerations
These provisions allow companies to delay notice when circumstances outside their control suddenly threaten the business’s survival.
Community and Employee Impact
A closure of the Marshfield facility would be a major blow to the local economy, as many of the affected employees live and work in the region. Officials warn that the entire workforce could be permanently eliminated, impacting families and regional suppliers tied to the plant.
Employees are awaiting updates from the company and the court overseeing the receivership regarding potential sales of the facility and future employment opportunities.
Next Steps
The court-supervised receivership process will determine whether Prince Corporation’s assets are sold as a going concern, sold in pieces, or liquidated entirely. Authorities and company officials stress that the situation is fluid and plans could change depending on the outcome.
Meanwhile, employees and community members are encouraged to explore state workforce resources and retraining programs offered through the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development in preparation for potential layoffs.
How should communities and local leaders respond when a major employer like Prince Corporation faces potential closure? What resources should be prioritized to help affected workers? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below to join the conversation.
