Algoma Hardwoods (Masonite Corporation) announcement of its plans to close its manufacturing facility was a shock for the local community and a blow to the local economy. The commercial door manufacturer has had a presence in the community for more than six decades; providing employment to generations of Kewaunee County residents. Although devastated by the news, community leaders have already begun to assess the impact and develop a strategy to respond to the loss of one of Kewaunee County’s largest employers.
Over the next 200 days, Algoma Hardwoods will be phasing out manufacturing operations at 1001 Perry St. in Algoma. All operations will cease on August, 31, 2017 and the plant will close. In total, 180 employees will be impacted by the closure of Algoma Hardwoods. More specifically, the company reported that 140 employees will face layoffs, while 40 office staff will be retained locally. Regrettably, the exit of Algoma Hardwoods means a loss of one of Kewaunee County’s largest employers.
KCEDC and the City of Algoma are working with community and regional partners to address the immediate needs of the community, as well as begin discussing workforce and economic development issues.
