The decision to consolidate the industrial operations for road machinery in North America to Shippensburg was taken to improve the competitiveness and profitability of the total road machinery business and will also reduce our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations within North America. The move, which will affect 500 employees in total, will take place in various phases, concluding no later than 2010.
The adjustment measures to be adopted for employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers will be the subject of discussions to be held with the Union.
The central parts warehouse, currently located in Goderich, will be relocated to the Volvo Parts warehouse in Columbus, Ohio.
A comprehensive Human Resources plan will be developed in collaboration with the local union and government agencies. This plan will include, but will not be limited to, training programs, counselling support, and help in the search for new employment.