In response to the continued weakening in demand for optical fiber in North America and in Europe, Corning Incorporated (NYSE:GLW) announced it is proposing to close its optical fiber manufacturing operation in Deeside, North Wales. The company plans to continue low-level operations at the facility through the end of 2001. Approximately 436 employees will be affected.
"It is regrettable that we must consider taking this action," said Alan Eusden, senior vice president and general manager, Corning Optical Fiber, "but this is the most viable course given the difficult market environment we are facing. Corning will utilize a consultative process with employee representatives and will act with responsibility and compassion."
Corning acquired 50 percent of the Deeside operations, then known as Optical Fibres, that it did not already own from BICC, plc in November of 1998. The plant is one of five Corning optical fiber manufacturing plants worldwide. The other operations are located in Wilmington and Concord, North Carolina, Neustadt Bei Coburg, Germany and Noble Park, Victoria, Australia.
About Corning:
Established in 1851, Corning Incorporated manufactures optical fiber, cable and photonic products for the telecommunications industry; and high-performance displays and components for television, information technology and other communications-related industries. For more information, visit www.corning.com.