TOPEKA, KAS. — Horizon Milling said it will halt production at its Topeka mill on Dec. 17, with a small number of employees remaining at the facility through January 2011 to remove equipment.

According to company officials, the 129-year-old mill has served the company well, but the plant could no longer efficiently compete without extensive and costly upgrades. Demolition crews are expected to begin work in February.

Flour customers currently supplied by the Topeka mill will be supplied through other Horizon Milling locations, the company said.

Horizon Milling L.L.C., which is a joint venture between CHS Inc. and Cargill, first announced its intent to close the mill in January 2010.