Whirlpool has been a familiar name in kitchens and laundry rooms for generations. So, when news started spreading about layoffs and plant closures, lots of people naturally wondered—could Whirlpool really be going out of business? Short answer: No, that’s not happening. But the company isn’t cruising along without any bumps, either. It’s a complicated moment, with real impact for workers and communities.
Where Whirlpool Stands Right Now
Whirlpool is still the biggest home appliance maker in the world, at least by sales. Their numbers are huge: more than $18 billion in annual revenue and over 73,000 employees on their global payroll. If you open someone’s fridge or check under their washer, you’ll probably see a Whirlpool sticker, or a brand owned by them.
But here’s the thing: Just being big isn’t the whole story. In early 2025, the company announced it was closing a couple of plants and laying off hundreds of workers, which is a big change for a brand that’s been around this long.
So, what’s really going on? Some of it is what you’d expect from a company in a tough spot. Whirlpool has lost some ground in terms of profits. Demand for their core products—like certain types of washing machines and dryers—has dipped, especially after the home improvement boom cooled off from peak pandemic years.
Why Are The Layoffs and Closures Happening?
When companies lay off workers or shutter plants, there’s usually a lot of finger-pointing. But Whirlpool’s executives are pretty open about their reasons. They say the main driver is shifting consumer demand. In other words, people just aren’t buying as many major appliances lately. Some are postponing big purchases until the economy feels more stable. Others may have upgraded during the pandemic and don’t need a new fridge or washer.
Whirlpool isn’t blaming tariffs, supply chain issues, or outside pressures—at least not this time. They say it’s a matter of getting smarter about their business. When you build too many appliances and not enough people want them, you end up with costly warehouses full of unsold inventory. That’s why they’re scaling back production in certain places.
To save money and run more efficiently, Whirlpool is consolidating its manufacturing footprint. This kind of streamlining is common when companies try to ride out tough market cycles. It helps them stay profitable when selling less.
Which Facilities Are Closing? Who’s Losing Their Jobs?
Let’s talk specifics. In 2025, Whirlpool revealed it was shutting down its plant in LaVergne, Tennessee. That closure means about 500 people will lose their jobs there. At the same time, the company confirmed another closure at its Reynosa, Mexico manufacturing site.
The company also announced that its Amana, Iowa facility will see significant layoffs—about 650 workers are set to be let go by early June 2025. That’s a big number in a local community, and it stings for employees and their families.
At these locations, the jobs are mostly in manufacturing—folks who actually make the appliances that end up in houses. For them, the closures are a tough blow. These aren’t just numbers—they’re families, neighbors, and people with stories.
What Is Whirlpool Doing For Employees?
When big companies announce layoffs or plant closures, people usually ask, “What are they doing to help?” Whirlpool says it will offer severance pay based on years of service, along with other transition benefits. That means things like job placement help, resume coaching, and counseling programs for those affected.
It’s impossible to fully make up for losing your job, especially when you’ve worked somewhere for years, but at least there’s some cushion. Employees often want more, understandably. There’s not a lot of comfort in statistics when your own future is up in the air.
Is Whirlpool In Danger of Shutting Down Entirely?
After hearing about all these cuts, lots of people wonder if Whirlpool is teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. The evidence says that’s not the case. Whirlpool’s total sales still put it at the front of the pack, and its stable of popular brands is still humming along. You don’t wipe out a century-old company overnight.
That said, the company isn’t in its strongest era. Industry analysts have pointed out that rounds of layoffs and plant closings are often warning signals for deeper problems. In Whirlpool’s case, the moves seem to be more about right-sizing the business for the current market, not throwing up the white flag. Investors, though, are watching closely. If things get worse—or if a competitor or investment firm comes knocking—there’s always the chance of a merger or acquisition down the line.
Could Whirlpool Get Bought Out?
It’s possible, and it wouldn’t be the first time a legacy manufacturer attracted this kind of attention. When a big company’s value drops, outsiders start wondering if it’s a bargain worth snatching up. Some analysts suggest Whirlpool could become a takeover target if financial performance keeps slipping.
But as of now, the company is still independent. There’s no public announcement about a possible sale or merger. Whirlpool continues to invest in its key markets and brands, and it claims to be “well positioned” for future changes in how people shop for home appliances.
What Does This Mean for Customers and Homeowners?
If you own a Whirlpool washer, dishwasher, or fridge, you’re probably not going to notice much—at least for now. The company says it’s committed to supporting current models, warranties, and repair requests. That’s good news for customers who rely on these products every day.
Still, if you keep an eye on these things, you might see some product lines getting thinner. Whirlpool could start focusing on the most profitable models instead of offering something for everyone. Over time, that can change the selection you see at home improvement stores.
Newer trends like smart appliances and energy-efficient designs are areas where Whirlpool is still active. They’re not dropping out of innovation entirely—they just need to be careful about what gets priority.
How Does This Affect the Appliance Industry?
The whole appliance industry is under pressure right now. Competition is fierce. International brands squeeze margins. Changing consumer habits make it tricky to predict demand. Whirlpool isn’t the only one facing tough decisions.
Other companies, from GE Appliances to Samsung, are also figuring out how to keep costs down while offering what people want. Sometimes that means making tough calls—consolidating plants, cutting jobs, or doubling down on best-sellers.
So while Whirlpool’s shifts feel big, they’re part of a much broader industry pattern. Nobody is totally immune from changing economies or fickle shoppers.
What’s Next for Whirlpool?
Whirlpool’s CEO has been blunt: things are challenging right now, but they’re planning to “reset” and build a more sustainable business. The idea is to shrink where necessary, then invest in areas with the most promise. That might mean fewer products, more automation, or doubling down on local production for key markets.
The company’s leadership insists this isn’t a slow march toward a shutdown. They’re looking for ways to bounce back from a patch of weak sales, and they’re watching for shifts in how we all buy and use appliances.
For anyone wanting a deeper look at strategies similar companies use, check out Blue Business Mag for regular industry updates and expert takes.
Final Thoughts—Whirlpool Isn’t Going Away, But It’s Changing
When you hear about plant closures and layoffs, it’s easy to jump to conclusions about a company’s survival. But that’s not what’s happening at Whirlpool, at least as of now.
The company is shrinking some operations, letting go of workers, and sharpening its focus to stay in the game. Those moves are tough, especially for displaced employees and their families. But for now, the brand’s core products and services are still available in stores and online.
Will there be more changes ahead? Almost certainly. Like a lot of manufacturers, Whirlpool will have to keep making hard decisions to adapt to what the market—and shoppers—want next year and the years after. For most people, Whirlpool isn’t disappearing. It’s just trying to figure out how to stick around in a new era of home appliances.
So, if you’re shopping for a new washer or just worried about the future of the brand, there’s no need to panic. Whirlpool’s current problems are serious, but not fatal. It’s still here, still selling, and trying to stay relevant—one appliance at a time.
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