Therma-Tru to Shut UK Plant, New President Takes Reins

Citing overall market conditions and a comprehensive review of its United Kingdom business, Therma-Tru has announced its intention to close a 52,000-square-foot facility it operates in Wales. More than 150 jobs will be eliminated as a result of the closure.

'While we have made considerable progress with rigorous cost-cutting and operational improvements over the past year, the outlook for the long-term viability of the business remains poor,' Carl Hedlund, president and CEO, told BBC News. 'Even with rigorous cost controls, operational improvements, and exiting money-losing channels, the business continues to deliver negative rates of return.'

If the closure goes ahead, 85 factory workers and 69 other staff could lose their jobs.
The company said it would work closely with local agencies to help staff find new employment.

Founded in the US in 1962, Therma-Tru was established in the UK when it purchased Sentinel Doors Ltd in 2004.

Later that year the company doubled its workforce with the creation of 150 jobs, as part of a £7.5m investment.

The expansion was backed by the Welsh Assembly Government and the Welsh Development Agency.

In other company news, David Randich was named president and will succeed Hedlund, when he retires at the end of the year.

Randich joins the company from Armstrong World Industries Inc., manufacturer of floors, ceilings and cabinets, where he spent 24 years in a variety of leadership roles including his most recent position as CEO of the company's floor covering business in Europe.

'We welcome Dave and pledge our fullest possible support to him as he prepares to assume his new responsibilities,' says Rich Forbes, president and CEO of Therma-Tru's parent company, Fortune Brands Home and Hardware. 'He is a fact-based team builder who is passionate about building brands through delivering quality products and service to customers. His extensive experience in various markets and product categories with multiple supply chain configurations prepares him very well to lead Therma-Tru.'