Hershey's Labor Deal May Slash 600 Jobs

The Hershey Co. says changes it's proposing at its two hometown plants may lead to the loss of up to 600 jobs.

Unionized employees at the company's two Hershey plants must approve the deal announced Tuesday as part of the candy maker's tentative agreement with union negotiators.

The company would shift production from its original facility on Chocolate Ave. to its newer West Hershey plant, which would be modernized.

Company spokesman Kirk Saville says the changes would mean the loss of 500 to 660 jobs. He says union rejection of the proposal will force Hershey to consider shifting work to other locations in the United States.

Saville says the decision is difficult but necessary for the company to remain competitive.