FOREST CITY – NIT recently reported that Iowa is a top-10 loser of manufacturing jobs in America, and Winnebago just announced that production plants in Charles City and Waverly are closing, fueling the proof that Iowa’s economy just might be one of the worst in the nation.
The recreational vehicle maker made the announcement via Iowa’s job-loss tracking, site, where employers break the news that they are firing workers. According to that site, beginning in September, Charles City will shed 18 workers and Waverly 77 workers. Charles City will let go 26 more workers in December.
Winnebago Industries, a leading manufacturer of RVs and marine products, is currently navigating a period of softened demand and economic headwinds, leading to revised guidance for fiscal year 2025. It’s stock has tanked in recent months, but since news of these layoffs, has rebounded somewhat, as the company strives to streamline operations to weather the current downturn.
The good news for workers is, there my be opportunities in Forest City and Lake Mills at those plants, the company claims.
In a recent study, Iowa is ranked #4 in America when it comes to losing manufacturing jobs. Artificial intelligence, new technology, and streamlined operations lead to less need for humans to do work, and the trend is accelerating. Companies consistently complain that workers are their biggest expense and headache, due to folks calling in, striking, demanding raises, performing poorly, calling in sick, etc. The future may be bleak for the American worker.
1 thought on “Winnebago to restructure production in North Iowa, close operations in Charles City and Waverly”
The Post-It note saying “you are fired” really doesn’t apply to this situation. Employees are fired when their actions result in their termination of employment. As far as I can tell the employees did nothing wrong.
A better choice of words would have been more appropriate.