MARTINSVILLE, Va. (AP) -- American of Martinsville plans to eliminate more than half of the work force and end most wood furniture production at its Martinsville plant by late summer.
The company announced Wednesday that it will eliminate about 400 jobs at the plant, which employs 700.
President Noel Chitwood said upholstered furniture production will continue at the plant, and employees in customer service, logistics and import operations won't be affected by the cuts.
American produces bedroom furniture for the hotel and senior living industries.
Chitwood said manufacture of intricate pieces, particularly those for higher-end customers, is more efficient in Asia.
American has an office in Shanghai, China, and produces furniture in China, Malaysia and Thailand.
