Dubuque

More than 200 people will soon be out of a job in Dubuque. Quad/Graphics announced Wednesday they are closing its Dubuque plant and permanently laying off all of its employees by early March.

City officials say this announcement isn’t a huge shock. The plant has changed hands several times since it first came to Dubuque in 1949 (Quad Graphics has only operated the facility since 2010). Changes in the printing industry, such as a move toward digital mediums, have resulted in struggles both for the industry and the company.

Quad/Graphics confirmed it will cut between 50 and 60 jobs at the Kerper Boulevard plant in Dubuque by the end of the year.

The company cut 24 jobs at the Dubuque plant in May and said it was "looking at ways to maximize its efficiency and competitive platform," according to Claire Ho, director of corporate communications.

Ho said the company will offer current employees jobs at other plants around the country and if they are unwilling to accept those positions, they will be offered a separation package including severance pay, extension of health care benefits and assistance in finding a new job.