Bobcat manufacturing plant in Gwinner, N.D.
GWINNER, N.D. (KFGO) – Layoffs appear likely at Bobcat manufacturing plants in North Dakota and Minnesota.
The President of Local 560 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers says the company has informed the union that it has received approval to build a manufacturing plant in Mexico.
Cory Parrow says it will mean the loss of between 300 and 500 jobs, mostly in Gwinner, North Dakota. Parrow says other jobs will likely be cut in Bismarck where engines are produced and in Rogers, Minnesota where cabs and tailgates are manufactured for Bobcat’s M Series line of skid steer and front-end loaders.
Parrow says the union is disappointed with the company’s decision. He says the hourly pay range in Gwinner is between $31.00 and $34.00. He says labor costs in Mexico will be much lower.
South Korean-based Doosan Bobcat, with it’s US headquarters in West Fargo, has yet to issue a statement on the plan.
Source: KFGO
