Caterpillar has announced plans to lay off about 200 full-time production workers, beginning January 19. The manufacturer said the layoffs will be at its East Peoria, Ill., and Decatur, Ga., plants where mining equipment is produced.
Caterpillar will also lay off about 40 agency workers.
The layoffs are in response to falling demand for mining equipment, Caterpillar officials said. Caterpillar will offer support services for the laid off workers, it said.
“While some cost reduction measures have already been implemented, including temporary shutdowns and reductions in the flexible workforce, more permanent measures must be taken in the near term,” Caterpillar said in a statement.
