More Valdese Weavers workers lose jobs

By Sharon McBrayer | The News Herald

Published: January 7, 2009

Morganton - Valdese Weavers laid off some workers this week.
Mike Shelton, president and CEO of the company, wouldn't say how many were laid off but the workers included salaried and hourly, with some management positions involved.
Shelton said the company is adjusting to current business conditions.
"It's just a recognition of the business climate right now," Shelton said of layoffs.
He said the decision was a financial one.
The company has four plants in Burke County, with three in Valdese and one in Connelly Springs, and employs 750 workers, Shelton said.
The company laid off 60 employees in November, citing the need to restructure.
Shelton said there has been a downturn in the market. The company sells fabric to companies that make residential furniture, fabric distributors and contract companies for office and hospitality furniture, he said.
The company grew dramatically in 2007, Shelton said. But with the weakening economy in 2008, the market for Valdese Weavers' product weakened, Shelton said.
While the company still has a strong position in the market, the company had to respond to a weakened market, Shelton said.