Ford Lays Off 1600 Factory Workers On Valentine’s Day
Over one thousand Ford factory workers are getting the least romantic gift ever for Valentine’s day, this year. They were building batteries for electric Ford vehicles, but a “change in federal policies” means the plant is closing down.
The factory in Glendale, Kentucky was technically owned by BlueOval SK, a joint venture ford had with South Korean EV battery manufacturer: SK On. On December 15th, BlueOval SK CEO, Michael Adams, told employees
“Some difficult steps must be taken, including the end of all BlueOval SK positions in Kentucky.” He added, “I understand that this is very hard to hear, especially at this time of year. Please know that your dedication and hard work have been evident every day.”
Mayor Greenbert of nearby Louisville didn’t pull any punches. “You’re seeing what happens with the change in federal policies away from the support of electric vehicles and the impact that it has on hardworking families, on investments in our community.” By law, BlueOval SK had to keep these employees on for 60 days, or until Valentine’s Day.
Despite changing policies, Ford is hoping to recoup its investment in the plant. And bring some jobs back in the process. “Ford is launching a new business — including sales and service — to capture the large demand for battery energy storage from data centers and infrastructure to support the electric grid. Ford plans to repurpose existing U.S. battery manufacturing capacity in Glendale, Kentucky, to serve the rapidly growing battery energy storage systems market.”
But first Ford will need to retool the factory. And however long that takes, the employees will be out of work. It’s going to be a somber holiday for 1,600 folks in Kentucky and their families.
