Middleby cuts Viking workforce weeks after acquisition

Elgin-based Middleby Corp., a provider and manufacturer of food service equipment, said Friday it is cutting 20 percent, or about 700 jobs, from its recent acquisition, Viking Range Corp.

The cuts are part of a reorganization aimed at improving product quality and customer service. None of the cuts will affect Middleby’s headquarters or other operations, a company spokeswoman said.

Middleby announced on Dec. 31 that it acquired Viking, based in Greenwood, Miss., for about $380 million in cash. The company manufactures cooking ranges, ovens and appliance under the Viking brand name for home use.

Middleby has about 4,000 workers worldwide and offers about 40 brands in the commercial food service and food processing industries. It also offers the brands of Jade, Turbochef and Viking for consumers.