Columbus, Ohio-based Worthington Industries, Inc. announced Friday a plan to consolidate its BernzOmatic hand torch manufacturing operation in Medina, New York into its existing facility in Chilton, Wisconsin. The consolidation is expected to reduce internal freight expense and maximize availability capacity at the Chilton facility, where the company already manufactures BernzOmatic hand torch fuel cylinders. The closure of the Medina operation is expected to be complete by mid-2014 to ensure an orderly transition.
"As the transformation efforts continue across our company, we are committed to identifying cost savings opportunities and increasing efficiencies. The consolidation of these facilities is an outcome of this work," Worthington Industries Chairman and CEO John McConnell said. "Decisions that result in displacing employees are difficult, and are approached respectfully, with financial support and help in finding new employment."