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Tyre producer Bridgestone Australia will close its Adelaide manufacturing plant for two weeks in April to cut stocks in the wake of the global economic downturn.
The company said yesterday that the plant, which employs about 600 workers, would close from April 14 to 27.
It said no jobs would be lost because of the closure, with workers to take annual leave.
"The economic slowdown is having an impact on consumer demand around the world and Australia is no different," said Bridgestone Group chairman and managing director Shawn Hara.
"This step is a reflection of Bridgestone Australia's ability to react quickly and prudently to the current situation to ensure we protect the long-term viability of our manufacturing business and the jobs of our valued employees," he said.
Hara said the company remained positive about the outlook for 2009 and no further shutdowns were planned, despite Australia's car producers also cutting production this year.
- AAP
