Pilkington to Close Auto Glass Plant in Clinton, Mich.

The NSG Group, which owns Pilkington Automotive, announced this week that it will be closing the company's auto glass plant in Clinton, Mich. Company officials cite the current economic downturn and its direct effect on the automotive industry as the reason for the closing.

"The unprecedented drop in demand and the reduction of future orders means there is insufficient work to keep the Clinton operation viable going forward," reads a statement from the company.

Pilkington says the closure will happen in phases, and will be completed by the end of summer 2010.

The Clinton facility has approximately 130 employees, whom were notified on Tuesday of the decision to close the plant.

"Closing an operation is a decision that is not made lightly," continues the statement. "We fully understand the implications for the individuals working at the facility and the local community. We will be working with our employees to minimize the impact of this decision."

The Clinton Pilkington Automotive operation produces modular glass components that include moulded and encapsulated features; customers include GM, Chrysler and Honda.