Mack Trucks today, Oct. 20, announced plans to reduce employment over the next six months by about 450 positions at its assembly plant in Macungie, Pa. The manufacturer said the work force reduction was in response to an anticipated market downturn caused by reduced industrywide demand for vehicles compliant with more stringent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emissions standards that take effect on Jan. 1, 2007.
“We very much regret the impact this action will have on our employees, their families and our local community,” said Paul L. Vikner, Mack president and chief executive officer. “But these reductions are essential to the responsible management of our business through the downturn. Right now, our focus is on developing our plans to assist affected employees.”
The Macungie plant currently employs about 1,040 people. The first reductions will take effect before the end of this year, with additional cuts expected in the first half of 2007. Employees were informed today of the plans, and the company now will begin discussions with the appropriate state and local agencies regarding efforts to assist those who will be affected.
