Dart Container Corporation laid off 84 workers at its Thomaston, Georgia production plant after a drop in demand over the past several months.
“Due to dramatic decreases in demand, there is not work available for a large majority of employees,” the company said in a WARN notice.
The facility, which does business as the Solo Cup Operating Corporation in Georgia, produces food service containers and lids.
As a result of the demand drop, the manufacturer transitioned from 24/7 operations to 24/5 on March 13, requiring it to reduce their workforce immediately, according to the notice. Those affected include inspector packers, maintenance mechanics, technicians, and operational excellence managers among others.
Employees will receive 60 days wages and benefits, as well as job placement assistance.
“Reducing our Thomaston workforce was a necessary but painful decision because we value the commitment and contributions of our employees, some of whom have been with us for decades,” Dart Container Corporation CEO Keith Clark said in an emailed statement to Manufacturing Dive.
Fifty-five employees remain at the plant, and the company’s manufacturing and distribution facilities in Conyers, Lithonia and Social Circle, Georgia, remain fully operational, according to the statement.
