Workers with a broad range of experience with the company will be laid off. Most work on the production line, although some are supervisors. The June layoffs were planned before the company was acquired by AdvancePierre; the layoffs announced Oct. 10 represent another phase in changes intended to keep the 56-year-old company competitive. "As our competitors and customers continue to get bigger, we must improve productivity, reduce costs and enhance efficiencies," Barber said. Barber would not rule out more layoffs in 2012, but noted that AdvancePierre is convinced that the Portland plant is an important part of its operation. AdvancePierre will invest $5 million this year in renovations and equipment upgrades, and plans to invest another $5 million in 2012, he said.