NEENAH, WI (WTAQ) – A total of 600 employees in the Fox Valley could be looking for work as a result of Kimberly Clark’s worldwide restructuring plan.
The company says it will close its Neenah Nonwovens Facility within the next 18 months and is considering shutting down its Cold Spring Facility in Fox Crossing.
The latter depends on the outcome of upcoming negotiations with union officials.
It’s all part of a plan to cut at least 12% of the company’s workforce.
Neenah Mayor Dean Kaufert notes the impact on his community reaches beyond the employees who are losing their livlihoods.
“(There’s also) all of the local supply chain companies that sell goods and services to the Kimberly Clark mills.”
Though Kaufert says there might be a silver lining for affected employees, based on his recent talks with local employers.
“Some companies are having difficulty filling positions, and they’re looking for a skilled, trained workforce.”
In addition, Kaufert says Kimberly Clark told him “any employee who loses their job because of this decision has the opportunity to apply for any of the other open positions around the country.”
Furthermore, Kaufert notes company officials told him they will offer retirement and severance agreements to affected workers.
Although, the mayor says he’s not giving up hope just yet.
“I’m trying to get ahold of the governor to see if maybe the governor’s folks can meet with Kimberly Clark and see if there is anything that the state of Wisconsin can do.”
Kaufert says Wednesday’s announcement was a “hit in the gut,” noting he didn’t expect the changes to impact the area this greatly.
In a statement, spokesperson says Kimberly-Clark “will continue to be one of the largest employers in the Neenah area, and our North American Consumer business will continue to be headquartered in Neenah. We remain committed to the Fox Cities community.”
Kimberly Clark did not immediately return WTAQ’s calls for further comment.
