Chicago, Illinois – Blommer Chocolate Co. announced on Friday that it will be shutting down its factory located at 600 W. Kinzie St. in Chicago by the end of May. The decision to close the factory, which has been in operation since 1939, comes as a result of increasing operating costs and the need for extensive repairs and maintenance of the aging facility. As a consequence, the company will be laying off 250 employees as part of the closure.

According to a spokesperson for the company, the closure of the Chicago facility is necessary due to the rising costs associated with maintaining the building and equipment, leading to production reliability issues. Employees were informed of the closure on Friday afternoon, with many of them being offered opportunities to transition to other roles within the company or to similar confectioneries.

Blommer’s senior vice president, Robert Karr, expressed sadness about the closure, acknowledging the hard work put in by the employees over the years to keep the plant operational. While the loss of the iconic chocolate aroma wafting through downtown Chicago will be felt, Karr emphasized that the company is looking ahead to the future as it plans to invest $100 million in its remaining production facilities in Pennsylvania, California, and Ontario.

The closure of Blommer’s factory marks the end of a storied chapter in Chicago’s candymaking history, which dates back to the late 1800s. The company, founded by Henry Blommer Sr. and his brothers, has been a significant presence in the city for decades. Despite facing setbacks such as EPA citations for clean air violations and fires in the past, the company has remained a cornerstone of Chicago’s confectionery industry.

Residents of the Fulton River District, where the factory is located, expressed shock and disappointment at the news of the closure. Many recalled the nostalgic scent of chocolate that filled the air and lamented the loss of a familiar and beloved presence in the neighborhood. As Blommer prepares to move its operations to other locations, the legacy of its Chicago factory will live on in the memories of those who were touched by its sweet aroma and delicious treats.