Smith & Wesson to Layoff Employees at Houlton Facility
One of Houlton's largest employers will soon be making some changes, in the form of layoffs.
Smith & Wesson told employees earlier this week that between now and next August, they plan to shift several manufacturing processes from Houlton facility to their parent facility in Springfield, Massachusetts, thus eliminating almost 40 jobs in Houlton. Those processes will be replaced with more automated machinery.
The 36,000 square foot Houlton location currently employs around 160 skilled workers, some of whom will be without a job in the coming months.
Smith & Wesson Corp. is one of the world's largest manufacturers of quality firearms and firearm safety/security products.The Houlton facility opened in the late 1960s, and at one time produced every single metal framed pistol that Smith & Wesson offers. Additionally, the Houlton facility is the worldwide leader in handcuff manufacturing, producing more than 7 million pairs since the mid-1980s.
Our thoughts are with those who are being affected by these layoffs.