United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) will close its North Whitehall Township distribution center this summer, a move that triggers a cascade of layoffs affecting hundreds of Pennsylvania workers.
The Rhode‑Island‑based wholesaler has filed a federal WARN notice confirming the 4255 E. Independence Drive facility will wind down between Aug. 12 and Oct. 18, with 717 employees — including 172 truck drivers — set to lose their jobs. One remaining supervisor is slated for termination in late 2026.
What the Pennsylvania distribution center closure means for local workers, communities
Losing a major logistics hub can ripple through Lehigh Valley’s economy. Warehouse staff, drivers, mechanics and office personnel are not the only ones bracing for impact; nearby suppliers, restaurants and service firms could also feel the pinch. So, what’s being done to soften the blow? County officials say rapid‑response teams will help workers tap unemployment benefits, résumé workshops and retraining grants.
| Date range | Action | Estimated jobs lost |
|---|---|---|
| Aug. 12 – Aug. 25 | First layoff window begins | 250 |
| Aug. 26 – Sep. 8 | Second wave of separations | 240 |
| Sep. 9 – Oct. 18 | Final warehouse departures | 227 |
| Late 2026 | Remaining supervisor exit | 1 |
Timeline shows when each wave of layoffs at UNFI will hit employees
The closure unfolds in three main phases, giving most workers roughly 60 days to prepare. That schedule complies with the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, designed to alert communities before mass job cuts. Nevertheless, some employees told local media they were caught off guard, asking, “Why didn’t we hear sooner?”
UNFI says the shutdown stems from a joint decision with Key Food to shift conventional grocery distribution to another supplier. Executives argue the partnership had become “unprofitable,” and consolidating freight at larger regional centers will boost efficiency. However, labor advocates counter that corporate belt‑tightening shouldn’t land squarely on front‑line staff.
On the other hand, UNFI insists customers won’t see delivery gaps because nearby facilities are ready to absorb the volume. First, pallets bound for independent grocers will be rerouted; then, remaining inventory will be liquidated or transferred.
What happens next for displaced UNFI employees in the Lehigh Valley
Affected associates can apply for posted openings at other UNFI locations, but relocation isn’t feasible for everyone. Consequently, state officials urge workers to register with PA CareerLink and explore training stipends in high‑demand fields such as logistics technology and commercial driving.
In short, the Lehigh Valley is losing a significant employer, yet resources are in place to help families navigate the transition. Whether that safety net is strong enough remains to be seen.