Impact of Boar’s Head Plant Closure: How It Could Devastate This Small Virginia Town

Boar’s Head Plant Closure Hits Jarratt Hard

Jarratt, Va. — The recent announcement of the Boar’s Head plant closure has left this small rural town in shock. The plant, the largest private employer in Jarratt (population 637), shut down indefinitely after a listeria outbreak resulted in nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations across 18 states.

Raheem Bittle, a former employee, started at the plant eight years ago to support his growing family. “It was good money fresh out of high school,” he recalled, highlighting the plant's role in providing financial stability for many locals.

With about 500 union workers affected, the closure has sent shockwaves through the community, which has already faced economic challenges due to declines in manufacturing and agriculture. Local businesses, from auto shops to restaurants, expect to feel the economic impact, as the plant’s employees frequented these establishments.

Community members are concerned about finding new jobs that pay comparably to the $18 per hour many workers earned at Boar’s Head. “We can’t fix their cars if they ain’t got no money,” noted Mike Wilkens, an auto technician.

Despite the hardship, some residents express resilience. James Brown, chair of the Greensville County Board of Supervisors, emphasized the community's strength, saying, “We will navigate and get through this together.” Meanwhile, local officials are working to assist displaced workers in filing for unemployment and finding new employment opportunities.

As Jarratt grapples with this sudden loss, the impact of the Boar’s Head closure will be felt far and wide, affecting not just employees but the entire town’s economy.