Factory fallout: Manufacturing plant closures and layoffs from Rivian, Owens Corning, International Paper, 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.
According to VTDigger, Vermont-based outdoor gear and apparel company Orvis plans to lay off at least 50 employees—4% of its workforce—by the end of the year as part of a broader reorganization. The layoffs follow earlier cuts of more than 110 jobs in 2024, as well as the closure of some retail locations and the discontinuation of catalogue sales. In a recent quote, Orvis President Simon Perkins said, “Tariffs disrupted our business model in ways we haven’t faced before and have exposed a clear path to solidifying our long-term future. Moving forward, Orvis will be returning to our roots and shifting our entire focus to the core strengths of our business—the fly fishing and wingshooting pursuits that have guided our company for nearly 170 years and inspire our customers in unique and powerful ways.”
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According to The Oregonian, Owens Corning will permanently close its door components manufacturing plant in Prineville, Oregon, beginning August 25, resulting in the layoff of all 184 employees. The facility, formerly owned by Contact Industries and recently acquired through Owens Corning’s $3.9 billion purchase of Masonite International, is the latest casualty in a broader decline in Oregon manufacturing jobs. In a recent quote, Megan James, Owens Corning spokesperson, said, “This decision was not taken lightly, and leadership’s priority is supporting the team in Prineville through this transition.” Some workers will remain through November to help wind down operations.
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According to TechCrunch, electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has laid off approximately 140 employees, or about 1% of its workforce, primarily from its manufacturing team. The layoffs are part of an ongoing effort to streamline operations ahead of the planned 2026 launch of its R2 SUV. In a recent quote, a Rivian spokesperson said, “We have made the difficult decision to reduce a small number of our salaried manufacturing employees as part of an ongoing effort to improve operational efficiency for R2.” Affected employees are being encouraged to apply for other open roles within the company.
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International Paper announced it will close its packaging facility in Marion, Ohio, its recycling facility in Wichita, Kansas, and exit the molded fiber business by converting its Reno, Nevada facility to support its packaging operations. Additionally, the company will sell its containerboard mill in Xalapa, Mexico and recycling plants in Xalapa and Apodaca, Mexico to APSA, which intends to retain current onsite employees. In the U.S., these changes will affect approximately 110 hourly and 24 salaried employees, who will receive support through internal job placements, severance, and outplacement services. In a recent quote, Tom Hamic, executive vice president and president of IP's Packaging Solutions North America business, said, "These decisions are never easy because of the impact on our employees, their families and the communities in which we operate. We will assist employees and customers as much as possible through this transition. While difficult, these decisions will help enable IP to prioritize the right geographies, customers and products and make investments in resources to support our growth in sustainable packaging."
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According to the Herald-Mail, Design Group Americas and Red Lion LLC will close their ribbon manufacturing plant in Hagerstown, Maryland, on August 26, 2025. The closure, listed in the Maryland Department of Labor’s WARN notice, will affect 70 employees. The facility, located on Willow Circle, has operated under several names, including Maryland Ribbon and C.M. Offray & Son. City officials plan to assist displaced workers by helping the company connect with available support resources.
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