Charlotte Faces Job Losses as Dura Supreme Cabinetry Closes, Impacting 74 Workers

Charlotte Faces Job Losses as Cabinet Manufacturer Closes Its Doors

Residents of Charlotte have received disappointing news just after the holidays, as Dura Supreme Cabinetry announces its impending closure. After only a year in operation at its new facility in Statesville, the company will be laying off all 74 employees effective January 20, due to what company officials are calling a “business decision.”

Job Cuts Hit the Region Hard

The closure makes a big impact on the local economy, providing a stark reminder of the struggles that many workers face in today’s job market. The 300,000-square-foot manufacturing site located at 607 Meachum Road in Statesville, about 45 miles north of Charlotte, was expected to be a beacon of opportunity when it commenced production. Dura Supreme focused on creating semi-custom and custom kitchen and bath cabinets, and the local workforce was hopeful for growth in the region.

A Short-lived Venture

Dura Supreme, established for over 70 years in Minnesota, was purchased by MasterBrand for $520 million in July 2021. This recent acquisition sparked visions of an expanded workforce, with hopes of generating over 200 new jobs in the Iredell County area. Employees had anticipated the chance to work in various roles such as cabinet making, furniture making, finishing, woodworking, and machining skills.

A Broader Strategy from MasterBrand

In a WARN notice delivered to the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Chase Thornburg, MasterBrand’s Vice President of Human Resources, confirmed the job cuts while stating that the decision was based strictly on business strategy. “This was a business decision,” Thornburg remarked, leaving many employees and community members seeking clarity on the sudden changes.

MasterBrand’s Consolidation Plans

In addition to the Dura Supreme closure, MasterBrand is also shutting down another facility in Liberty, located in Randolph County, which will impact an additional 200 workers. Company spokesman Farand Pawlak indicated that MasterBrand’s strategy includes consolidating operations at more efficient facilities, ultimately focusing on the company’s site in Kinston, Lenoir County.

Investments and Future Outlook

MasterBrand seems determined to navigate these challenging times, having significantly invested nearly $14 million in expanding its Kinston operations to add 450 jobs over a five-year period. For this expansion, the company garnered nearly $4 million in state tax incentives over 12 years, highlighting ongoing support from local government in fostering job creation.

Cabinetry Showrooms Remain Open

Locally, Dura Supreme boasts showrooms in Charlotte, Cornelius, Mooresville, and Shelby. However, with the news of the factory’s closure, customers are left wondering about the future of local cabinetry services. MasterBrand remains one of North America’s largest cabinet manufacturers, employing over 12,000 workers across its numerous facilities.

Community Response

As the news sinks in, residents and former employees alike are feeling the squeeze of uncertainty. The fact that this closure comes just a year after hopes were high has added a bitter twist to the story. It’s a reminder that even bright beginnings can turn cloudy, leaving workers to ponder their next steps in search of stability in the job market.

With the closure date quickly approaching, the community of Charlotte watches closely, hoping for swift support for those affected and a brighter future ahead.