‘Hostess’ Store in Waite Park Open – For Now

IRVING, Texas (AP) - Hostess Brands says it is going out of business, closing plants that make Twinkies and Wonder Bread and laying off all of its 18,500 workers.

The Irving, Texas, company says a nationwide worker strike crippled its ability to make and deliver its products at several locations.

Hostess had warned employees that it would file a motion in U.S. Bankruptcy Court to unwind its business and sell assets if plant operations didn't return to normal levels by Thursday evening.

WJON news stopped by the Hostess Bakery Outlet store at 39 1st Avenue South in Waite Park this (Friday) morning.  As of right now it is still open.  The worker declined to comment, and we haven't heard back from any company officials, so we're not sure how long they'll remain open.  There were several customers in the store, stocking-up on Twinkies, Wonder Bread, and other products before they're gone for good.

The privately held company filed for Chapter 11 protection in January, its second trip through bankruptcy court in less than a decade.