Returning home today from a trip I have been trying to catch up on some of our local news. Chicago has a large Ford plant and that plant appears to have been spared from the announced plant closings. In fact they announed that the Hegewish (Chicago) Ford Plant is going to be needed for some new product models.
Still, while the plant is remaining open, apparently it will operate differently as FORD is trying to prevent its demise.
Workers are being given the opportunity to take a retirement buyout. That will leave many without jobs but with a wad of cash. Ford makes out by eliminating a lot of long term labor expenses. But is it enough to save the company? Even with the plant closings and the buying out the laborers, and laying off what sounds like will be up to 10,000 manager, will they be able to offer cars that A) appeal to consumers and B) are profitable to manufacture?
By the way, I heard a rumor that British equipment manufacturer JCB (maker of TLBs, skid loaders, etc) may be interested in buying the Jaguar division of FoMoCo.
Still, while the plant is remaining open, apparently it will operate differently as FORD is trying to prevent its demise.
Workers are being given the opportunity to take a retirement buyout. That will leave many without jobs but with a wad of cash. Ford makes out by eliminating a lot of long term labor expenses. But is it enough to save the company? Even with the plant closings and the buying out the laborers, and laying off what sounds like will be up to 10,000 manager, will they be able to offer cars that A) appeal to consumers and B) are profitable to manufacture?
By the way, I heard a rumor that British equipment manufacturer JCB (maker of TLBs, skid loaders, etc) may be interested in buying the Jaguar division of FoMoCo.