Jerky and meat snacks manufacturer Oberto Brands is shutting down operations at its Nashville, TN plant and selling its Albany, OR facility in order to consolidate production and increase growth.

The company says it will discontinue operations at the Nashville plant in April and move operations to its hometown of Kent, Washington near Seattle. To accommodate the increased production, Oberto says it is investing in an expansion of the Kent facility that includes installing new jerky-making equipment and enhancing existing lines.

“While it is always difficult to consolidate manufacturing facilities, we are thrilled to be expanding our capabilities in Kent,” says Jason Blake, senior vice president of operations for Oberto. “With these changes, we will dedicate more resources to quality improvements and technology upgrades.

By moving all manufacturing into the same location as Oberto’s R&D lab, Blake added the company sees this as a way to increase innovation and boost business growth.

In addition to marketing the Oberto and Pacific Gold brands, Oberto produces private label jerky for national retailers.

As a result of the decision, 82 employees at the Nashville facility will be laid off.

"While we are excited about the new opportunities ahead, a decision like this is never easy,” says Tom Hernquist, Oberto president and CEO. “I want to emphasize our appreciation for the support and dedication our Nashville employees and the community have shown since we began operations there. I promise we will do everything to ensure a smooth transition.”