Owens Corning is planning to lay off up to 160 workers out of a total of 360 at its building insulation plant in Bethlehem, New York state, due to the closure of a production line. One of two production lines is being shut down at the end of 2007, said Owens Corning spokesman Jason Saragian. He said that "continued forecasts for prolonged weakness in demand for building materials" in the United States, specifically residential construction, are forcing the move. "The line is expected to remain curtailed throughout 2008, dependent on market conditions", Mr. Saragian said. "The curtailment is part of Owens Corning's strategy to ensure that all capacity is aligned with market demand". Employees were told about the company's plans on 25 October 2007, although no action has been taken.
