Business News

O-I Closes Karhula, Finland, Plant

Friday 28. August 2009 - As a result of the company's ongoing review of its global manufacturing footprint, Owens-Illinois, Inc., (NYSE:OI) has concluded a process of consultation with local union representatives and has closed its glass container plant in Karhula, Finland. Production has been transferred to other O-I facilities.

The Karhula plant is one of two European facilities O-I identified for closure in the second quarter. Consultation with local union representatives continues regarding the second European facility. An announcement is expected later this year.

“Our ongoing global asset utilization process identified the opportunity to shift production to other European facilities. The result will be lower energy consumption and production costs, while still allowing us to meet current and anticipated market needs,” said Rich Crawford, president of O-I Global Glass Operations.

O-I is helping the approximately 100 affected employees explore other employment opportunities, including positions within the company.