VONORE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – Carlex Glass America has announced plans to close its manufacturing facility in Vonore, a move that will impact 320 employees and end operations at the Monroe County plant by September.
The company confirmed the closure as part of a broader effort to realign its manufacturing operations in response to changing market conditions and customer demand.
According to Carlex, the decision comes as the company continues expanding its operations in Nashville, including a more than $55 million investment made at that facility last year.
Carlex CEO Ramzi Hermiz said the decision was difficult because of the company’s long-standing relationship with employees and the local community.
“This decision was a difficult one because of the enormous contribution of so many amazing team members in Vonore, as well as our ties to the broader community that we have called home and supported for so long, but it in no way reflects a decision to reduce Carlex’s commitment to the State of Tennessee,” Hermiz said.
The Vonore facility has served as a full glass fabrication operation, producing windshields, sidelites and backlites for major automotive manufacturers, including Ford, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai and Subaru.
Company officials said support services will be provided to affected employees. Those resources are expected to include opportunities for reassignment to other Carlex facilities, career transition assistance, resume support and interview preparation.
Carlex also announced that certain employee benefits will continue after the separation process, although specific details regarding those benefits were not immediately released.
The closure represents a significant economic impact for Vonore and Monroe County, where the plant has been a major employer and manufacturing presence.
Operations at the facility are expected to wind down over the coming months and conclude by September.
