TRAM Inc., an automotive parts supplier based in Plymouth, Michigan, has announced the closure of its TRIN Inc. plant in Ashley, Indiana, next spring. This decision will result in the loss of over 150 jobs for employees at the plant.
The closure, scheduled for March 31, 2024, will affect 155 workers, including office staff and managers, as reported by The (Auburn) Star. TRAM Inc. stated in a federal WARN Act notice sent to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development that both the closure and layoffs are expected to be permanent. The company anticipates that the layoffs will begin in November.
Employees at the Ashley plant were informed that they would have an opportunity to transfer to a related entity in Michigan, according to the notice. It is important to note that none of the plant’s employees are represented by a union.
TRIN Inc., a Japanese-owned automotive parts supplier, has been serving renowned companies such as Toyota, Nissan, Subaru, Ford, and General Motors, as mentioned on its website. Specializing in switch-related automotive components like steering pad switches, power seat switches, and door lock switches, the Ashley plant has been operating approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Fort Wayne.
TRAM Inc. functions as a subsidiary of Tokai Rika Co. LTD, headquartered in Nagoya, Japan.
The closure of the TRIN Inc. plant and subsequent job losses highlight the challenges faced by the automotive industry. As the global market continues to evolve, companies must adapt to remain competitive, sometimes leading to difficult decisions like plant closures.