Kawneer plant In Jonesboro to close

The plant closing will affect about 250 hourly and salaried employees. The reduction is part of Alcoa's Strategic Review of its fabricating operations worldwide, announced last November. The closing was announced to employees during meetings at the plant on January 15. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers union represents hourly workers there.

William O. Cralley, Kawneer president, said, "There is industry over capacity and declining market demand. We must reduce our manufacturing base if we are to remain an industry leader. This decision is especially difficult because of the impact on our employees and their families. We will provide appropriate support to help them through this difficult time."

Jonesboro plant manager Tom Szematowicz said he would focus on helping employees in the weeks ahead as production begins ramping down. "We will also work with State and Clayton County officials to help make this site available for some other interested business in the future," Szematowicz stated.

The Jonesboro facility has one extrusion press and associated services that produce aluminum doors and frames for the commercial construction industry. The plant has been in operation since 1962 at the eleven-acre site. To ensure customer needs are met, this portion of the business will transfer to other Kawneer locations.