Dozens of workers are out of a job in Blenheim after a plant shutdown.
CK News Today has confirmed that Hopkins Manufacturing on Chatham Street in Blenheim has switched its plant operations to a warehouse only site, putting approximately 50 workers out of work.
Multiple sources, who want to remain anonymous, told CK News Today that First Brands Group (FBG) out of Rochester, Michigan, which bought the 100-year-old Hopkins plant in Blenheim in 2023, made the decision to shut down production of winter products, such as snow brushes and ice scrapers.
One source said production is moving to Mexico and that she and others were dismissed, but they received their severance packages.
Another worker said they were also dismissed.
A third source said shutting down production has nothing to do with U.S. tariffs, adding the decision to shut down the plant was made prior to tariffs being imposed on Canada.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent said it is aware of the closure, adding that any details specifically related to the closure would have to come from the company itself.
"Any time an employer closes their doors in Chatham-Kent it’s difficult for those directly affected and for our entire community at large," said the municipality in a statement sent to CK News Today.
The municipality noted it has supports for workers, including the CK Jobs site and case workers available through Employment and Social Services if there is a need during the period of transition.
First Brands Group is a global automotive parts company that develops, markets, and sells premium products, such as brakes, filters, spark plugs, and wiper blades through several well-known brands.
Hopkins purchased Mallory Industries in 2013, which was started by George Mallory in Blenheim in 1891.
There's no comment yet from FBG.
