MINERAL WELLS, W.Va. (AP) — Benson Manufacturing is closing its specialty trailers plant in Mineral Wells because of declining sales.
The closure is effective immediately but workers' pay and benefits will continue until Oct. 31, the Cadiz, Ky.-based company said Thursday in a news release.
About 80 people work at the plant.
Human Resources Director John Earles said the plant's sales are down substantially from last year, despite efforts from management to increase its business.
''Industry sales for the trailer and body business are the lowest in many years all across the country. Prevailing market conditions have left us with no choice but to take this action,'' Earles said in the release.
Benson Manufacturing produces custom trailers and truck bodies. The company plans to shift production from Mineral Wells to Cadiz.
''We're shell-shocked,'' said Keith Burdette, president of the Wood County Development Authority. ''The company is telling us there has been a meltdown in sales across the industry.''
