MIDLAND, Mich. (AP) -- Dow Chemical Co. said Friday it would cut between 400 to 500 jobs near its Midland headquarters as part of a previously announced global layoff plan.
The nation's largest chemical maker said last month it would slash 5,000 full-time jobs -- about 11 percent of its total work force -- close 20 plants and sell several businesses to rein in costs amid the economic recession.
"The decision to reduce jobs is one the company never takes lightly," said Mike Gambrell, executive vice president of manufacturing and engineering operations and head of Dow's restructuring program. "However, the global financial crisis, combined with recent and steep declines in customer demand, have intensified the company's need to accelerate cost-cutting measures."
