Holloway Sportswear, Inc., headquartered in Sidney, OH, will shift manufacturing of wool varsity jackets in Jackson Center to a company owned facility in Mexico. The transition will begin in January 2010 and be complete by the first quarter of 2011.
The company said this is a strategic decision based on the current economic conditions and the volatile wool jacket market. It is not a reflection on the dedication and contributions of the employees in the Jackson Center facility.
“The decision to close this facility is extremely difficult because of the people and communities it impacts. However, the cost to manufacture wool varsity jackets domestically is not a viable business model in today's market place. This transition will enable Holloway to become financially stronger and continue to invest in the growth of the company,” stated Mark Vondenhuevel, President.
“We need to point out that this move will provide additional benefits to our customers. Not only will we maintain the same high level of quality and service but we will be able to offer upgrades like making the all accessory embroidery zipper standard on all jackets at no additional cost,” added Bill McIver, VP of Sales & Marketing.
The transition will affect approximately 90 Jackson Center facility employees. The company's objective is to make this transition a smooth process for the customers while also assisting its employees.
“Holloway is committed to helping each employee through this year long transition. We will be offering severance packages to those who work through the closing as well as researching additional benefits that might be available through government programs,” stated Mark Vondenhuevel.
