BRILLION, WI (WTAQ) – Slow sales of snow throwers is forcing Ariens to lay off ten workers.
Spokesperson Ann Stilp tells FOX 11 that the permanent layoffs affect salaried employees in the operations department primarily at its Brillion corporate offices.
“Ariens has experienced significant growth over the last several years and this change is a course correction to balance that growth against the unpredictable weather impact that drives the outdoor power equipment business, especially the snow thrower business,” she said.
Ariens will also be shutting down its plant for 14 days for maintenance in February. The closure is tied to a high level of inventory built up in the snow thrower retail channel. Much of the blame is shoveled on the lack of snow this winter.
Stilp tells FOX 11 that workers may take vacation or file for unemployment during that time.
The company is covering employee medical, dental and vision contributions during the shutdown.
