The Star Tribune printed its final newspaper in Minneapolis today after 158 years of local production. The move marks the end of an iconic era for Minnesota’s largest newsroom. Beginning tomorrow, the publication will shift all printing operations to a Gannett facility in Des Moines, Iowa.
🔥 Quick Facts
- 158 years of continuous local printing ends December 28, 2025
- Heritage printing facility in North Loop operated since 1987
- 125 employees losing jobs as Minneapolis plant closes permanently
- Move expected to save several million dollars annually for the newspaper
Final Chapter for Minneapolis Printing Legacy
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The Minnesota Star Tribune released its last newspaper from the historic Heritage printing facility in the North Loop neighborhood today. Employees gathered for an emotional final shift, capturing the end of nearly four decades at the North Loop location.
The facility had been printing the newspaper since 1987, making it a cornerstone of Minneapolis’s media infrastructure. Print subscribers will continue receiving their newspapers, but the publications will now originate from Iowa rather than Minnesota.
Strategic Shift to Digital-First Operations
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The newspaper announced the closure in September 2025, citing the need to modernize operations and transition toward digital platforms. The decision reflects broader industry trends affecting print journalism across the United States.
Company leadership stated the move will enable the Star Tribune to preserve resources and invest more heavily in digital journalism. The facility’s sale will also free up the valuable 13-acre North Loop property for potential redevelopment.
| Impact Category | Details |
| Employees Affected | 125 workers at Heritage facility |
| Annual Savings | Several million dollars |
| New Printing Location | Gannett facility, Des Moines, Iowa |
| Operational Period | 38 years (1987-2025) |
Industry Response to Printing Operations Move
Local business leaders and media observers have characterized the closure as a significant turning point. The Twin Cities business community expressed concern about the job losses while acknowledging the economic realities facing the print newspaper industry.
The Star Tribune, owned by billionaire Glen Taylor since 2014, remains committed to serving Minnesota readers. The company has emphasized that print subscribers will experience no disruption in delivery or service quality despite the operational relocation.
“The cost-benefit analysis supports this transition, allowing us to serve our readers better while investing in the future of journalism.”
— Star Tribune Leadership, Company Statement
What Does This Mean for Minnesota’s Journalism Future?
The closure represents a watershed moment for Minnesota journalism. While the Star Tribune continues as the state’s largest news organization, the move underscores the challenges facing traditional print media. The company maintains a significant newsroom and operations in Minneapolis despite shifting printing operations elsewhere.
Future development plans for the North Loop printing plant property could reshape the neighborhood. Real estate developers have already expressed interest in the 13-acre parcel, with potential plans for mixed-use redevelopment. The sale of this valuable real estate may provide additional revenue for the publication’s digital expansion efforts.
Sources
- Star Tribune – Official reporting on printing plant closure and final publication
- MPR News – Coverage of Heritage facility shutdown and employee impact
- CBS Minnesota – Local business and economic analysis of the transition
Patrick Graham is a business and finance journalist translating Wall Street’s complexities into stories that matter to everyday readers. With extensive experience in financial journalism and economic analysis, this expert journalist provides sharp insights on market trends, corporate developments, and the economic forces affecting daily life. His reporting helps readers make sense of the business world’s biggest moves.