Lancaster, SC – On July 27th, 2016, Duracell announced that they will be consolidating North American production of AA and AAA batteries, moving down from two U.S. production plants to just one in LaGrange, GA.
As a result, the Lancaster, SC, plant will reduce its production over the next three years before finally ending operations in mid-2019. Over 430 employees are expected to lose their jobs as a result of the reduction.
“We examined many options before we reached this conclusion”, said Robert Lorch, President of Global Operations for Duracell. “This was a very difficult decision as it affects the lives of our team members and their families, who have invested so heavily in this facility. However, after careful deliberation, we’re taking this important step to position the Duracell business for growth.”
According to Duracell, the decision to chose the LaGrange facility as the one to remain came due to its future land expansion potential, strategic transportation positioning, and adjacency to the recently expanded Duracell LaGrange Business Center.
Some of the workers affected will be encouraged to apply for expanded opportunities at the LaGrange plant. As for others, Duracell plans on working with state officials to ensure employees are informed about re-training opportunities and unemployment benefits.
