According to Vitro, the economic impact of COVID-19 was a factor in the decision of closing its plant in Evansville. Vitro previously had announced two of its lines would cease production.
“In mid-April, Vitro advised employees of the possibility of closing the remaining lines, given the growing severity of the economic impact from the coronavirus pandemic and impacts on U.S. auto manufacturing,” a portion of the company’s release reads.
“Unfortunately, the unprecedented disruption on the U.S. auto market created significant excess capacity and made it impossible for Vitro to complete the turnaround plan and return the plant to profitability,” a portion of the company’s release reads.
Vitro’s employees have been informed that the company expects its Evansville facility employees to be “separated from employment due to the closing” at various times beginning on or about July 31, 2020. According to the company, the final closing will be on or about December 31, 2020.
“This is a very challenging time, and a very difficult decision for our company,” said Salvador Minarro, president of Vitro Automotive Glass. “We will ensure support to our employees and families through this time.”