Owen-Illinois to Close Glass Container Plant

Owens-Illinois, Inc., announced that as a result of the ongoing review of its global manufacturing footprint, the company will close its glass container plant in Scoudouc, New Brunswick, on March 31, 2008. Approximately 200 employees will be affected.

"This has been a very difficult decision and we sincerely regret having to take this step. The performance of the employees at the Scoudouc facility is not the reason for our actions," said Scott Murchison, president, North America Glass Containers. "We have worked to improve operations and to try to secure business to support the Scoudouc facility. Unfortunately, market conditions have not provided any alternative solutions."

Remaining production assigned to the Scoudouc plant will be transferred to other O-I facilities in Canada. After the closing of this facility, O-I will have four glass container manufacturing plants in Canada and 20 in the United States, including one joint venture.