Invacare Corporation announced Wednesday their decision to close their London facility by mid-2014.
The company says the plant closure is “part of the company’s long-term strategy to remain cost competitive by optimizing its global supply chain.” As a result, up to 71 jobs cuts are expected.
''While we regret the impact that this decision will have on our London associates, we believe this is an important step for the long-term health of the Company,” said Gerald B. Blouch, President and Chief Executive Officer in a statement.
Invacare manufactures long-term health care beds for retirement homes, as well as corresponding furniture. Invacare tells CTV News that the production of this furniture will be shipped to Florida, while bed production will be outsourced to undisclosed location.
“The company to which we are outsourcing our long-term care bed production has a strong quality system, established competence in acute care bed production, a very efficient operation and advanced information systems,” said Blouch. “Taking advantage of their size and proven systems allows Invacare to reduce complexity within its long-term care business,''
Invacare says no jobs will be lost until the plant closes by mid-year.
