Company spokeswoman Caley Clinton said the facility, known as Plant 1, mainly made drums and performed the fabrication and machining of smaller components. That work, she said, will be transitioned to other Joy Global locations and alliance partners — some immediately, with the remainder moving over the coming months.
Joy has cited “unprecedented market conditions, weak industry demand and a struggling customer base” for its decision, but noted that any remaining orders at Franklin, which is located about 85 miles north of Pittsburgh, will be completed there to allow for a smooth transition for its customers.
Officials for the original equipment manufacturer are planning to meet with the representatives of the union workers’ bargaining unit to look at options for those employees affected by the closure. While Joy has not indicated a specific number of job losses, local media have estimated up to 150 jobs will be lost.
“This was a difficult decision to make, but one that reflects the market challenges seen across our industry,” said Peter Salditt, president of underground mining. “We remain committed to the Franklin area, as it will continue to be our global engineering hub for room-and-pillar and shearer loader products, as well as related technical services and supply chain. We value the contributions of all of our employees and are working to help them manage this transition.”
Joy Global will continue chain product manufacturing at its nearby Reno location and will also retain its engineering, technical services and support staff based in Franklin.
