Brooks Brothers told workers and state officials in May 2020 that it planned to close its three remaining USA factories this summer. The company said no final decision had been made, but that closing them was “likely.”
The plants
- Long Island City, N.Y.: 136 workers making neckwear and doing alterations. The WARN notice listed an Aug. 18 closing.
- Haverhill, Mass.: 413 workers making Southwick tailored clothing and Brooks Brothers suits, sport coats and trousers. The listed closing date was July 20.
- Garland, N.C.: a shirt plant with 146 jobs, set to close permanently on July 20.
The New York notice cited “unforeseeable business circumstances prompted by COVID-19.” The North Carolina notice gave the same reason.
Context
Only weeks earlier, Brooks Brothers had converted these factories to make masks and gowns for health-care workers. WWD reported that a small number of workers were still making that protective gear.
The company, founded in 1818, had long promoted its USA-made heritage. WWD said closing the plants would likely push production overseas, since few USA factories can handle orders of that size.
“The factories are incredibly meaningful to our heritage and we value our employees. All opportunities on the table are still being explored to avoid this difficult outcome.”
Brooks Brothers spokesperson
FAQ
Which factories were affected?
Long Island City, N.Y.; Garland, N.C.; and Haverhill, Mass.
How many jobs were listed?
136 in New York, 413 in Massachusetts and 146 in North Carolina.
Was the decision final?
No. The company said closing was likely but subject to change.
Source & credit
Source: WWD, May 19, 2020: “Brooks Brothers: No Longer ‘Made in the USA’?”.