WEBSTER CITY, Iowa (AP) The layoffs have begun at the Electrolux plant in Webster City as the plant begins the process of closing down by this spring. United Autoworkers Local 442 Vice President Jerry Kloberdanz says the company posted the first stage of layoffs on Jan. 7.
Kloberdanz says there are about 500 people working at the plant.
Electrolux, which makes washing machines and dryers, announced in 2009, that it will close the Webster City plant by the end of March.
The Messenger in Fort Dodge is reporting that the company began building a presence in Mexico several years ago in anticipation of moving production there.
Kloberdanz says the long-range plan is to retain about 75 workers in the company's technology center in Webster City, which will remain open.
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Information from: The Messenger, www.messengernews.net