Windsor Auto-parts Plant Closure Cancels Remaining 130 Jobs

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Researched by Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas)--Martinrea International Incorporated (PINKSHEETS:MRETF) (Windsor, Ontario) closed operations at the company's Windsor factory in July, after 45 years of operations. The factory produced twist axles, cross-members and other welded metal parts for Chrysler minivans. It had been decided that the factory was no longer cost-competitive.

The average earnings for workers at the Windsor plant was $28 per hour. A fluctuating Canadian dollar and stiffer global competition, resulted in drastic changes for hundreds employees. Workers, who had 20 years or more seniority, suddenly found themselves seeking employment at a time when retirement was in clear view, and when jobs are few and far between. Those affected will be given first chance at any new jobs that may open at the company's other plants, including a 15-month benefits package.

Upon the last day of employment, employees were told to leave their personal possessions behind and that arrangements would be made at a later date for pickup. There's been a lot of hurt and anger because of the closure, and workers are disheartened by the entire process. Chris Yoell, a committee member, said that most of the workers at the facility grew up together, describing the work environment as a large family. The plant previously had 360 employees, and more than 100 already had lost their jobs. As a result of the closure, 300-plus employees were laid off. A skeleton staff of 12 to 15 will remain on-site, dismantling equipment in preparation for a move to plants in Ridgetown, Dresden and Jonstown, Michican.

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