Factory fallout: Manufacturing layoffs from Avancez, Monarch Tractors, Invincible Boat Co. and more

According to the latest Employment Situation report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the last month of data on manufacturing layoffs, September, saw about 6,000 jobs lost on net in durable and nondurable goods production. Data for October and November are as yet unknown until the BLS releases its next report in early December after data collection was delayed during the government shutdown. But as December and the end of the fourth quarter loom, it’s also an advantageous time for companies looking to start the new financial year slimmer to downsize. This Black Friday, spare a thought for the manufacturing employees who may be having to look for new work soon.

Avancez, a Michigan-based General Motors supplier, announced November 7 in a WARN notice filed with the state that it would lay off 143 workers, including 133 employees represented by the United Auto Workers. In the notice, Avancez said the layoffs werenecessary due to “the sudden and unexpected cancellation of our primary customer’s second shift.” The notice came out five days after General Motors said it would lay off 900 at its Fairfax Assembly Plant in lieu of establishing a second shift there. The layoffs will go into effect between December 5-19. According to the Detroit Free Press, 230 workers will remain. Despite UAW representation of 133 workers, Avancez’s WARN notice notes they would not receive bumping rights to accept new jobs at the company, since no union contract had yet been reached. Avancez workers received UAW recognition June 18 and are represented by UAW Local 155.

Invincible Boat Co., a Florida-based boat manufacturer, said in a November 17 WARN notice that it would permanently lay off 128 employees as the company changes its operational model to a “marine service and support center.” The company will keep 45 workers but eliminate all manufacturing and production positions. Invincible Boat Co. said it would start laying off workers starting January 20, 2026.

Pine Gate Renewables announced November 6 that it would declare bankruptcy in Texas and sell off its assets. Though the company indicated it would continue operations, a November 6 WARN notice provided to North Carolina said the company would permanently close its Asheville, North Carolina plant and lay off 223 employees. In its WARN notice, the company cited Trump policy changes towards solar power.

Prysmian Cables and Sytems, a manufacturer of telecommunications cable, announced November 6 it would close down its Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania plant over the next two years. In a WARN notice provided to the state, Prysmian said the closure would see 150 workers laid off.

Lawn & Garden LLC announced November 6 it would shut down its Excelsior Springs, Missouri, plant, according to local news site the Excelsion Citizen. In a WARN notice, the company said it would start laying off its 93 employees starting January 30, 2026. The majority, 85, of affected employees are members of the Local United Steelworkers 13-23 chapter.