More than 540 jobs at risk as Limerick's Wyeth infant formula plant to shut 

Nestlé purchased Wyeth Nutritionals in 2012 as part of its acquisition of Pfizer Nutrition

The factory manufactures infant formula products exclusively for export to markets in greater China and Asia. Picture: Brendan Gleeson

Food giant Nestlé has announced plans to close its West Limerick infant formula manufacturing plant as well as research and development (R&D) operations in Ireland with the loss of 542 jobs.

In a statement, the company announced that it would be ceasing operations at Wyeth Nutrition infant formula factory in Askeaton, Limerick by the end of the first quarter of 2026. The co-located R&D centre will close by early 2025.