Yarn and apparel manufacturer Wellstone Mills LLC, Greenville, has announced it will cease operations at its Lakeside II plant in Eufaula, Ala. Approximately 120 employees will be affected. The company attributes the closure to increasing levels of textile and apparel imports, which have led to reduced demand for products made at the Lakeside II facility. The announced shutdown follows the closure of Wellstone’s Lakeside I plant in July 2007. Wellstone will continue to operate its six other manufacturing operations.

In a press release issued by Wellstone, the company stated: “This move is a sad and difficult one for the people and the community involved. Wellstone would like to express our deepest appreciation to the loyal employees of Lakeside II for their years of commitment and to the community for its support. Wellstone will help employees apply for trade adjustment benefits.”

The company plans to continue producing 17 million pounds of yarn per week at its other plants. It has spent the last half of 2007 expanding product capabilities, according to Josh Hamilton, president, and expects to continue that expansion into 2008 with the introduction of such products as eco-friendly yarns; organic and organic-blend yarns; and fire-retardant yarns; among other performance products. The company also plans to build on its military segment.

December 18, 2007