💰️ What’s Next for Jackson’s Pringles Plant, After $36 Billion Sale? 💰️

We’re Looking At Another Beautiful Sunday In The Hub City!

If you’ve not been keeping up with things happening in Jackson, that’s ok! That’s why you signed up with us! 😂 All jokes aside the purchase of Kellanova, Pringles parent company will have a major impact on Jackson going forward.

In Today’s “HubCity Newsletter”:

• The 3 Changes That Might Come from This❓️

• Nothing Changes (This Is the Most Unlikely) ➡️

• Layoffs, Downsizing, or Jobs Being Shipped Abroad 🚢

• Production Ramps Up & They Expand Operations 📈

• Weekly Events For The Kids 🛝

• Weekly Events For The Whole Family 🎡 

Read Time: 3 - 5 Minutes

Let’s Begin!

For anyone who has lived here long enough knows that the Pringles plant is more than just a factory; it's a cornerstone of the local economy. As one of the largest employers in the region, the plant provides jobs to thousands of workers, directly contributing to the livelihood of countless families in Jackson and its surrounding areas.

Moreover, the facility's presence boosts the local economy through secondary industries such as transportation, packaging, and maintenance services, all of which rely on the steady production of those iconic potato crisps. (Fun Fact: They are legally known as crisps and not chips.)

Over the years, the Jackson plant has gained recognition for its efficiency and scale, playing a crucial role in Kellogg's (now Kellanova's) global supply chain. (Kellogg’s split into two companies in 2023 “WK Kellogg Co” owning the North American cereal division and “Kellanova” owning the snack brands.)

The Jackson plant's production capacity and logistical advantages have made it a key player in the broader regional economy. Which has led many experts to say that any changes to its operations could have significant ripple effects throughout West Tennessee.

Recent Mars Inc. purchased Kellanova, for a staggering $36 billion. This includes brands such as

• Pop-Tarts

• Cheez-It

• Rice Krispies Treats

• Club Crackers

• Pringles

  AND

  several other brands.

We all know that when purchases like this are made by these multi billion dollar corporations, vast changes soon follow! This is why speculation for the future of the Jackson plant has become a topic of discussion. Mars Inc., a global powerhouse in the food industry, now holds the reins of one of the most beloved snack brands in the world.

❓️ Here Are the 3 Changes That Might Come from This ❓️

Major acquisitions like this often lead to one of three outcomes: business as usual, downsizing, or expansion.

• Nothing Changes (This Is the Most Unlikely)

• Layoffs, Downsizing, or Jobs Being Shipped Abroad

• Production Ramps Up & They Expand Operations

Each scenario has its own set of implications, ranging from maintaining the status quo to significant changes in the plant's operations and workforce. Let’s explore these possibilities in greater detail.

➡️ Nothing Changes (This Is the Most Unlikely) ➡️

Although comforting, this outcome is unlikely. Mars Inc. invested $36 billion in Kellanova to optimize their investment, likely through strategic changes to increase profitability and market share. This often involves strategic changes to existing operations, including evaluating the performance and potential of all facilities.

For Mars Inc., leaving everything as it is would mean missing out on opportunities to integrate Pringles into their broader portfolio of snack brands. Mars Inc is known for its strategic approach to acquisitions, often looking for ways to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance profitability. Simply maintaining the status quo at the Jackson plant would not align with these goals.

In layman’s terms, no company would spend this this amount of money without expecting significant returns on their investment. To achieve this, they will likely make changes that could impact the Jackson plant. Whether these changes are positive or negative for the local workforce remains to be seen, but the idea that nothing will change is not a realistic expectation.

🚢 Layoffs, Downsizing, or Jobs Being Shipped Abroad 🚢

One of the most concerning possibilities for the Jackson community is the potential for layoffs, downsizing, or the offshoring of jobs.
In today’s economy which is marked by inflation, rising interest rates, and cautious consumer spending, Mars Inc. might see cost-cutting as a way to maximize their new acquisition’s value.

Companies all over the country are announcing bankruptcies and layoffs left and right. With the most recent ones being Avon filing bankruptcy and locally Stanley Black & Decker downsizing.

With recent layoffs Stanley Black & Decker and Avon filing bankruptcy, the possibility of job cuts at the Jackson plant is a concern.

Downsizing is a common strategy for companies looking to improve efficiency. If Mars Inc. identifies redundancies or inefficiencies in the Pringles production process, they could decide to reduce the workforce at the Jackson plant. Additionally, if the company believes that production can be done more cheaply elsewhere, there is a risk that some jobs could be moved abroad, where labor costs might be lower.

One thing that cannot be understated is that Mars Inc. generally has a reputation for being a responsible employer. While layoffs and downsizing are possibilities, the company also has a history of investing in its facilities and workforce. The final decision will likely depend on a range of factors, including the plant’s performance, the cost of labor, and the broader economic environment.

📈 Production Ramps Up & They Expand Operations 📈

On the positive side, the plant has been in operation for 50 years now and it’s strategic location, established infrastructure, and skilled workforce make it an ideal candidate for increased investment.

These advantages could already be factored into Mars Incs plans for a larger investment into the Jackson plant to meet growing demand for Pringles worldwide.This would not only secure existing jobs but could also create new employment opportunities in the region.

One of the biggest possibilities is expanding operations could involve diversifying the plant’s production lines to include other Mars Inc. products, increasing the plant’s importance within the company’s global supply chain. Jackson’s position would be solidified further making the plant’s role as a key global contributor for years to come.

Mars Inc.'s acquisition of Kellanova is one of this year's most significant developments. While no one can read the future, the three scenarios outlined above provide a framework for understanding the potential outcomes.

Whether Mars Inc. chooses to maintain the status quo, implement cost-cutting measures, or invest in expansion, the future of the Jackson plant will be closely watched by the local community and the surrounding areas.

We hope this brief analysis sheds light on what’s ahead for one of Jackson’s oldest and largest employers.

Like always, here is your curated list of events for August 19th - August 25th.

Monday, August 19th

Story Time 📖
Date: Monday, August 19th
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Downtown Library
Price: Free

Casey Jones Craft Camp 🎨
Date: Monday, August 19th
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

Tuesday, August 20th

Casey Jones Craft Camp 🎨
Date: Tuesday, August 20th
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

Chaos & Order 🔭
Date: Tuesday, August 20th 
Time: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
Location: M. D. Anderson Planetarium
Price: Free
Additional Details: No Food Or Drinks Allowed. Please 15 Minutes Early & No Entry Once The Show Starts.

Story Time Station 📖
Date: Tuesday, August 20th
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free (Includes Light Snack & Craft)
Ages: Preschool

Wednesday, August 21st

Story Time Station 📖
Date: Wednesday, August 21st
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free (Includes Light Snack & Craft)
Ages: Preschool

Casey Jones Craft Camp 🎨
Date: Wednesday, August 21st
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

Thursday, August 22nd

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

Casey Jones Craft Camp 🎨
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

Friday, August 23rd

Chaos & Order 🔭
Date: Friday, August 23rd 
Time: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
Location: M. D. Anderson Planetarium
Price: Free
Additional Details: No Food Or Drinks Allowed. Please 15 Minutes Early & No Entry Once Show Starts.

Story Time Station 📖 
Date: Friday, August 23rd
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free (Includes Light Snack & Craft)
Ages: Preschool

Saturday, August 24th

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

Kids' Saturday Morning Planetarium Show: TimeSpace 🔭 
Date: Saturday, August 24th 
Time: 9:30PM - 10:15PM
Location: M. D. Anderson Planetarium
Price: Free
Additional Details: No Food Or Drinks Allowed. Please 15 Minutes Early & No Entry Once The Show Starts.

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️ 
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

Sunday, August 25th

Smash Bros Weeklies 🎮️
Date: Sunday, August 25th
Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: E-Gamers Cafe
Price: $10 (Cash Only)
Additional Details: Registration Starts At 5:00 PM & The Tournament Begins At 6:00 PM.

Monday, August 19th

Story Time Station 📖
Date: Monday, August 19th
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free (Includes Light Snack & Craft)
Ages: Preschool

Obion County Fair 🎡
Date: Monday, August 19th
Time: 5:00 PM - Til Close
Location: Obion County FairGrounds
Price: $5 (Entry Only) 

Story Time 📖
Date: Monday, August 19th
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Downtown Library
Price: Free

Casey Jones Craft Camp 🎨
Date: Monday, August 19th
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

Bingo & Brownies 🟫 
Date: Monday, August 19th
Time: 6:00PM - 7:30PM
Location: Beech Bluff Recreation Center
Price: Entry for Bingo (Free) Brownies & Drink $3

Tuesday, August 20th

Casey Jones Craft Camp 🎨
Date: Tuesday, August 20th
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

Obion County Fair 🎡
Date: Tuesday, August 20th
Time: 5:00 PM - Til Close
Location: Obion County FairGrounds
Price: $20 Night (Price Includes All Rides & Entertainment)

Chaos & Order 🔭
Date: Tuesday, August 20th 
Time: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
Location: M. D. Anderson Planetarium
Price: Free
Additional Details: No Food Or Drinks Allowed. Please 15 Minutes Early & No Entry Once The Show Starts.

Story Time Station 📖
Date: Tuesday, August 20th
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free (Includes Light Snack & Craft)
Ages: Preschool

Wednesday, August 21st

Obion County Fair 🎡
Date: Wednesday, August 21st
Time: 5:00 PM - Til Close
Location: Obion County FairGrounds
Price: $5 (Entry Only) 

Story Time Station 📖
Date: Wednesday, August 21st
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free (Includes Light Snack & Craft)
Ages: Preschool

Casey Jones Craft Camp 🎨
Date: Wednesday, August 21st
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

“Disciples In The Moonlight” (Movie Showing) 🎥
Date: Wednesday, August 21st
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: New Life Christian Center
Price: Free (Popcorn & Drinks Provided)
Movie: Disciples In The Moonlight

Thursday, August 22nd

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

Casey Jones Craft Camp 🎨
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

Pickleball 101 🏓 
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Pugh Bourne Park
Price: (Call For More Details)
Additional Details: Space Limited To 8 People Per 2 Hour Class.

Obion County Fair 🎡 
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 5:00 PM - Til Close
Location: Obion County FairGrounds
Price: $20 Night (Price Includes All Rides & Entertainment)

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

Coding Club (Meet Fellow Programmers) 💻️ 
Date: Thursday, August 22nd
Time: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: Downtown Library
Price: Free
Ages: 9 Years Old & Up

Friday, August 23rd

AMP Concert Series: Hope MacGregor 🎶 
Date: Friday, August 23rd
Time: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: The AMP
Price: Free Entry

Chaos & Order 🔭
Date: Friday, August 23rd 
Time: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
Location: M. D. Anderson Planetarium
Price: Free
Additional Details: No Food Or Drinks Allowed. Please 15 Minutes Early & No Entry Once Show Starts.

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️ 
Date: Friday, August 23rd
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

Obion County Fair 🎡
Date: Friday, August 23rd
Time: 5:00 PM - Til Close
Location: Obion County FairGrounds
Price: $5 (Entry Only)

Story Time Station 📖 
Date: Friday, August 23rd
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free (Includes Light Snack & Craft)
Ages: Preschool

Saturday, August 24th

Farmers / Flea Market 🥭 
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: Beech Bluff Recreation Center
Price: Free Entry (Item Prices Vary)

Open Play Toddler Hangout 🚼
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 10:00 AM - 11: 30 AM
Location: Downtown Library
Price: Free

Obion County Fair 🎡
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 5:00 PM - Til Close
Location: Obion County FairGrounds
Price: $5 (Entry Only)

Baby & Kids Fest – Once Upon a Story 📖 
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: Jackson Fairgrounds
Price: Free
Additional Details: This is the  educational event of the summer. Baby and Kids Fest is fun for children of all ages, their parents, expectant parents and the community.

Kids' Saturday Morning Planetarium Show: TimeSpace 🔭 
Date: Saturday, August 24th 
Time: 9:30PM - 10:15PM
Location: M. D. Anderson Planetarium
Price: Free
Additional Details: No Food Or Drinks Allowed. Please 15 Minutes Early & No Entry Once Show Starts.

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

A Year with Frog and Toad 🎭️ 
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: The Ned
Price: $12.00 - $15.00 (Plus $1.50 Fee)
Presented By:The Jackson Children and Teen Theatre

5K Run Hosted by Victory Honda of Jackson 👟 
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 7:00 AM
Location: Fleet Feet
Price: $16.90 (Registration + SignUp Fee)

WTHEA Back-to-School Bash (West TN Home Education Association) 🏫 
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: Poplar Heights Baptist Church
Price: Free (Kickball, Cornhole, Four Square and So Much More!)
Additional Details: Pack A Picnic Basket, Bring Your Friends & Family and Enjoy A Day Of Outdoor Fun and Relaxation. 

Sunday, August 25th

Tennessee Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit 🛡️ 
Date: Sunday, August 25th
Time: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Location: The Range
Additional Details: This Is A Required Class By The State Of Tennessee Before Filing An Application For An Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit.

Smash Bros Weeklies 🎮️
Date: Sunday, August 25th
Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: E-Gamers Cafe
Price: $10 (Cash Only)
Additional Details: Registration Starts At 5:00 PM & The Tournament Begins At 6:00 PM.