O-I to Close Lavington, British Columbia, Glass Container Plant

Owens-Illinois, Inc., announced that as a result of the ongoing review of its global manufacturing footprint, the company will close its glass container plant in Lavington, British Columbia, on October 31, 2008. Existing production from the Lavington plant will be transferred to other O-I facilities.

"This closing was driven by our ongoing global asset utilization process which identified the opportunity to shift our production to other O-I North American facilities, resulting in lower energy consumption and production costs while still meeting current and anticipated market needs," said Scott Murchison, president, North America Glass Containers.

Approximately 300 employees will be affected. The company will provide assistance to help employees seeking new jobs.