SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The Owens-Brockway Glass Container recycling plant in Portland announced its decision to lay off 81 employees next month. The company cited unexpected slowdown in the regional wine market as the reason behind the layoffs. The layoffs represent almost 70% of the total workforce at the facility.
According to Jim Woods, company spokesperson, the layoffs will begin with effect from 21st July, 2023 and are likely to last for a period of at least six months. The layoff notice sent to state office says that the recycling facility will continue to operate with reduced staff. A decision on when to resume production will depend on evolving market conditions, which will be constantly monitored, said the spokesperson.
The facility was served notice by regulatory authorities alleging environmental impacts on surrounding community. The regulators had fined the company $1 million in 2021 and had ordered for significant improvements in environmental performance.
Following agreement to install new equipment to control pollution, the authorities had reduced the fine to $662,000. The works are slated to begin in August this year. O-I Glass, the owner of the facility, is reportedly in consultations with environmental authorities on installing the equipment.
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