Windsor engine-parts maker Stanadyne Corp. said today it will shut its local manufacturing plant, putting about 250 people out of work by mid-2011.
Stanadyne officials held out the possibility that some of those idled Connecticut workers could land jobs in North Carolina, where the company will consolidate its domestic parts production over the next two years.
Stanadyne CEO David Jones said the action was prompted by undercapacity at its three U.S. plants, which supply its sluggish North American and European markets.
Meanwhile, Stanadyne parts plants in Chenna, India, and Changshu, China supply those expanding overseas markets, which the company has made the centerpiece of its future growth Jones said.
Approximately half of its 500 Windsor workers will be affected by the move, he said.
Its southern U.S. plants are in Jacksonville and Washington, N.C.
“These moves are needed to help us remain a strong competitor to the Windsor and North Carolina economies in which we operate,” Jones said.
About 110 jobs will be added in North Carolina, and Stanadyne’s Windsor workers affected by the move will be considered for those openings, said Chief Financial Officer Steve Langin.
Stanadyne’s corporate headquarters, technology center and engineering operations will remain in Windsor, where its employment is expected to grow, the company said.
The company manufactures automotive engine and fuel-system components, including injectors, pumps and fuel additives.
Stanadyne began in 1876 as the Hartford Machine Screw Co.
Reader response:
“What a surprise. Another manufacturer movng out of CT. When will our democratic legislature get it.” — E. Gillespie, president, Fortune Plastics Inc., Old Saybrook
(with four other facilites throughout the U.S.)
“We need to keep jobs here! We need to be more competitive in the Business world.” — Patricia, Pebbles Graphics
“In a few years the only manufacturing left in Connecticut may be defense related and that is certainly not a sure bet. These are the types of jobs we need to maintain the quality of life in this state! — T. Testa, Lamotex Inc.Â
