RealTruck to close Rugged liner plant, Cutting 90 jobs

RealTruck, a Michigan-based accessories company, has quietly filed to close Rugged Liner's manufacturing plant in Owosso, Michigan, cutting 90 jobs by March 19, 2027. The company, which specializes in injection-molded polyethylene bed liners and wheel well liners, has been operating in Shiawassee County for decades.

The WARN notice, posted by Michigan's Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, indicates that the closure is due to unspecified reasons. The plant, which has already seen a reduction in its workforce over the years, is part of RealTruck's portfolio of brands, which includes several acquisitions made by private equity firm L Catterton.

The closure provides Owosso workers with approximately seven months' notice, allowing for a phased wind-down. While the products will continue to be available through RealTruck, the future of the Rugged Liner brand remains uncertain, as production may shift to other facilities within the company's network.

This closure highlights the ongoing consolidation in the aftermarket manufacturing sector, impacting local economies and raising concerns about independent repair access and parts availability.

Read the full story at finance.yahoo.com.