End of an era at Wapsie Produce

After more than 100 years as a chicken and capon processing plant, the Wapsie Produce building on Water Street in Decorah now sits empty. Friday was the last day of operation for Wapsie Produce.

Co-owners Marc and Paul Nichols spent Friday working on final details of the closing. Marc Nichols said that while the closing was difficult, in the end it was a business decision.

Wapsie Produce, Inc. was founded in 1958 by Carl Nichols, then managed by his sons Marc and Paul and his grandsons, BJ and Craig. Wapsie Produce markets capons under its own Minowa and Ioma labels, as well as under private labels for selected companies.

The plant used by Wapsie Produce has been a poultry processing plant since 1903. Wapsie Produce officials said an effort is being made to sell the facility to a qualified buyer. Friday's closing of the plant meant around 90 employees lost their jobs.

(Left to right): Wapsie Produce co-owners Marc and Paul Nichols