Saputo Inc. announced Wednesday that it will close four of its facilities, including its cheese plant in New London.

Two of the plants to be closed are in Canada, while the other U.S. plant is located in Hancock, Md.

The first facility closure is scheduled in May 2014 and the last closure will occur in December 2015.

In all, approximately 180 employees will be impacted.

Saputo indicated that 67 hourly and 11 salaried employees would be affected in New London, according to an email to Mayor Gary Henke. The layoffs are expected to begin Aug. 23.

Saputo says these employees will be provided with severance and outplacement support. Some will be offered the possibility of transferring to other Saputo locations.

The company says the move to close the four plants will improve operational efficiency. Current production will be integrated into other Saputo facilities.