ROCK FALLS – Hostess is embroiled in a union dispute that leaves uncertain not only the future of Twinkies, but also of the local Hostess Wonder Thriftstore and its 16 employees.

Most of the shelves are pretty bare at 301 W. U.S. Route 30, and the store is likely to close this week, spokesman Thom Weidlich said Monday. In fact, all Hostess stores are set to close once their stock sells out.

The Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union initiated a nationwide strike that crippled Hostess’ ability to produce and deliver products – including Twinkies, Ding Dongs, Ho Hos and Wonder Bread – and so it was shutting down, the company said Friday.