Bic eyes layoffs of 300 workers

http://www.newhavenregister.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=11104727&BRD=1281&PAG=461&dept_id=517515&rfi=6

MILFORD — Bic USA Inc. may lay off 300 workers and close its ballpoint pen and shaver manufacturing operations here within two years, the company said Wednesday.

Bic USA’s North American headquarters and lighter manufacturing division would remain in Milford. The company employs 830 people at its 500 Bic Drive plant.

Local and state elected officials pledged Wednesday to try to save the jobs.

"It’s a third of the work force. It’s huge," said state Sen. Win Smith, R-Milford. "Everyone is going to pull together to combat this."

<snip>

Bic also plans to close its Sheaffer Pen manufacturing plant in Fort Madison, Iowa, which would result in about 100 layoffs, pending union talks.

The 400 jobs represent about 20 percent of Bic’s United States work force. The layoffs could save the company $25 million a year, officials said.

...more...

... someplace overseas perhaps? Mexico most likely? Bic isn't just going to start producing 20% fewer pens are they? They just didn't suddenly have a 20% increase in productivity did they?
:pals: White House and Business, in partnership against America