Factory fallout: Manufacturing plant closures and layoffs from John Deere, Solerno Technologies, Nilfisk Inc. and more

With political winds changing and global markets tightening, manufacturers are making tough decisions—and workers are feeling the impact. In this roundup, we chronicle the closures and cutbacks reverberating throughout the manufacturing sector. As uncertainty becomes the new normal, we examine how businesses and workers alike are navigating a rapidly changing industrial landscape.

The Des Moines Register reports that agricultural equipment manufacturer John Deere is laying off 141 workers in Iowa, including 101 at its Waterloo plant and 40 at its Des Moines Works facility in Ankeny. In a recent quote, Deere said, “As is common in manufacturing, production schedules at each John Deere factory vary to align with seasonal farming needs. When fewer orders come in, each factory adjusts accordingly.”

According to Patch, cleaning equipment maker Nilfisk Inc. will permanently close its Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, plant, eliminating about 105 jobs beginning Dec. 5, 2025, with all positions phased out by June 30, 2026.

The Courier Journal reports that manufacturer Leggett & Platt will close its Georgetown, Kentucky, adjustable bed plant, cutting 100 of its 122 positions starting Nov. 10, with layoffs continuing into early 2026. In a recent quote, the company said, “This action is the result of sustained challenges including reduced customer demand and tariffs on imported components, which have significantly impacted the viability of production at this location.”

Reuters reports that Toyota workers in Brazil approved a temporary layoff plan after storm damage shut down its Porto Feliz engine plant, with the arrangement potentially lasting up to 150 days to protect jobs and wages.

The Charlotte Observer reports that Solero Technologies will close its Shelby, North Carolina, plant and cut 102 jobs, with layoffs beginning Nov. 28 and the facility fully shuttered by March 31, 2026, as production shifts to Mississippi and Germany. In a recent quote, Chris Byrd, senior vice president of global human resources at Solero, said the company “would support employees affected by closure by partnering with local agencies to provide career transition resources.”