Sonoco Closing Plant

Sonoco announced that it will close its molded plastics plant in Frankfort, Ind., and consolidate those operations into existing facilities in Detroit, Mich.; Chatham, N.Y.; Forest City, N.C.; and Union, S.C. The closing will be phased, with completion expected near the end of the first quarter of next year.

The plant, which has been in operation since 1972, produces injection molded plastics products primarily for the wire and filtration markets.

This consolidation is part of the company's previously announced plans in August to reduce further its average cost structure by approximately $60 million.

"It is always difficult to close a facility, particularly when you have people as dedicated to serving our customers as our team in Frankfort. Unfortunately, this action is necessary to reduce Sonoco's overall cost structure in light of weak general economic conditions. These consolidations will in no way adversely affect our ability to serve our markets and customers," said Bob Puechl, division vice president, Molded Plastics.