In a news release on Friday, Blommer Chocolate revealed its decision to shut down its original manufacturing plant located at 600 W. Kinzie St. in Chicago. The company cited the facility's age, increasing repair and maintenance costs, and production reliability issues as factors that led to this necessary move.

Blommer Chocolate, founded in 1939, acknowledged the challenging nature of this decision, but emphasized the importance of progress, transformation, and elevation in propelling the company forward. Mark Okita, the Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of Commercial, expressed that the closure marked a new chapter for Blommer Chocolate and their customers, urging the need to aggressively challenge themselves for continued success.

While the Chicago plant will be closing, Blommer Chocolate's corporate headquarters, Applications Lab, and New Research and Development Center will remain in downtown Chicago at the Merchandise Mart. The company also announced its plans to expand the lab capabilities at the Merchandise Mart location.

Known for sharing the delightful aroma of chocolate across downtown Chicago, the plant has faced fire incidents in recent years. The closure decision aims to address not only the operational challenges but also ensure the company's future growth and success.

While the closure of the original Chicago plant may mark the end of an era for Blommer Chocolate, it also paves the way for expansion plans in their Campbellford Canada operation. Blommer Chocolate is determined to embark on this new phase and strive towards making it the best chapter yet.

The closure of the Chicago manufacturing plant is part of Blommer Chocolate's strategy to optimize its operations, improve efficiency, and continue providing high-quality chocolate products.