Fletcher Building may close plant – 41 jobs at risk

The jobs of 41 workers are at risk as Fletcher Building proposes to close its particleboard factory at Kumeu, northwest of Auckland.

Financial returns from the plant, which made particleboard for the New Zealand market, had deteriorated due to reduced demand and overcapacity in the industry, Fletcher said today.

Consultation had started with the 41 affected employees.

The proposed closure would not have an adverse effect on the company's future operating earnings, Fletcher said.

Production of particleboard would continue at its Taupo plant, and customers would not be affected.

- NZPA