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Holcim (US) Announces Changes at Two Production Facilities |
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November 11, 2008
- Production stoppage and workforce reduction in response to economic conditions.
WALTHAM, MA, November 11, 2008 — Holcim (US) today announced it must reduce production capacity in its cement manufacturing operations in response to the extensive downturn in the demand for cement products. The Company will close its Clarksville, Missouri and Dundee, Michigan plants and lay off approximately 340 employees over the next several months.
President and CEO of Holcim (US) Inc. Bernard Terver said, “The closures are in response to economic and marketplace conditions. It is with sadness and regret we must take this step in Dundee and Clarksville, as we value the good work all these employees have done for Holcim and their communities. Like so many manufacturers of construction-related goods, we are coping with economic conditions that have dramatically reduced demand for our products. This slowdown is especially significant in the Midwest that is served by our Dundee and Clarksville facilities.”
The Portland Cement Association projects cement consumption will decline 13% in 2008; 12% in 2009 and 2% in 2010. These declines follow a 10% reduction in consumption in 2007 and will translate to the largest decline in history.
Clinker production in Clarksville will cease in the first quarter of 2009. This will affect the majority of the plant employees, while a smaller team will continue with the grinding operations to reduce existing clinker inventory.
One of two kilns at the Dundee plant will be shut down at the end of November, which will affect approximately 40 employees. When the second kiln line is shut down in the first half of 2009, the majority of the remaining employees will be affected. Like Clarksville, a smaller team will continue with grinding operations. No changes are planned at the corporate office, which is also located in Dundee.
With these changes, the Company remains committed to providing uninterrupted service to its customers.
Holcim officials announced the closure to employees at both plants earlier today. The Company is making every effort to help the affected employees through this difficult time.
Holcim deeply appreciates the support of the communities in Clarksville, Missouri and Dundee, Michigan over many years. The Company knows they have been successful as a result of the great many people and organizations that have helped the plants.
About Holcim (US)
Holcim (US) Inc. is a subsidiary of Holcim Ltd., and one of the nation’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of cement and mineral components. Holcim (US) has approximately 2,900 employees and operates 16 manufacturing plants and over 76 distribution facilities in the United States.
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www.holcim.com/us
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