Sparton Corporation on March 4 announced the closing of its Jackson, Mich., manufacturing operations no later than June 30, 2009. The closing is in response to the difficult economic and competitive situation in the industries served and is part of Sparton’s plan to return the company to profitability.
“While this decision was extremely difficult, it is critical for us to take the steps necessary to ensure the long-term viability of the company,” said Cary Wood, chief executive officer. “We have been faced with excess capacity for some time now and we need to optimize our manufacturing resources to a much more competitive level.”
The Jackson facility has served as both the company’s headquarters and a manufacturing plant for its Electronics business. Products currently manufactured in Jackson will be transferred to the company’s facilities in Brooksville, Fla., and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Customer orders will not be affected by the transfer to other facilities.
The closing affects 39 salaried and 167 hourly employees who will receive severance packages consistent with company policy. Sparton will work with various state and local agencies to provide displaced employees with job search assistance, basic skills training and counseling.
About Sparton Corporation
Sparton Corporation now in its 109th year, is a broad-based provider of electronics to technology-driven companies in diverse markets. The company provides its customers with sophisticated electronic and electromechanical products through prime contracts and through contract design and manufacturing services. Headquartered in Jackson, Mich., Sparton currently has six manufacturing locations worldwide.