Volvo announced that it expects to lay off about 600 workers at its North American powertrain facility in Hagerstown, MD, in the first half of 2007. The plant now employs about 1,770 people. According to Volvo, the reduction in workforce is related to what is expected to be an industry-wide decline in demand for trucks equipped with ’07-compliant engine technology.
“While these reductions are necessary for the responsible management of our operations through the downturn, we regret the impact they will have on our employees, their families and the Washington County community,” said Sten-Ake Aronsson, senior vp of Volvo Powertrain North America.
The Hagerstown announcement follows a statement released by Mack Trucks, also part of the Volvo Group, that it plans to lay off 450 workers at its Macungie, PA, plant during the next six months.
For more information, go to www.volvo.com