Friesland­Campina closes Born facility: production moves to Workum

FrieslandCampina has announced significant changes to its production network in the Netherlands. The dairy company aims to make its operations more efficient and sustainable, which involves consolidating activities in Leeuwarden and relocating cheese production from Born to Workum. These measures are accompanied by the elimination of a total of 186 jobs.

Changes in Leeuwarden

In Leeuwarden, FrieslandCampina plans to concentrate production in the southern part of the site. This means the northern section will eventually close, avoiding substantial renovation investments. This adjustment also streamlines logistics, as the site will no longer be divided by a road and railway line. The closure of the northern area will result in the loss of 87 jobs. Additionally, from June 2026, FrieslandCampina will cease production of sweetened condensed milk in Leeuwarden. This production will be transferred to strategic partner Hochwald in Bolsward. In return, FrieslandCampina will produce evaporated milk for Hochwald in Leeuwarden.

Closing cheese production in Born

The production of natural cheese will be relocated from Born to Workum, leading to the closure of the Born facility. This decision reflects further consolidation within the production network. The closure of Born is scheduled for May 2025.

FrieslandCampina has stated that affected employees will be supported through a social plan. This plan provides assistance in finding new employment, both within and outside the company, to help mitigate the impact of these changes as much as possible.

Frieslandcampina.nl