Beneteau USA President Wayne L. Burdick said Wednesday that the "difficult" action taken this past Friday at the Marion boat plant to layoff workers was "sadly taken," as "continued challenges" to the economy have caused sales of the luxury boats to decline.
Burdick, who is traveling, responded by e-mail regarding the layoffs, saying that current sales have fallen below historic averages. Thirty production team members were laid off at Beneteau USA, he said.
"This very difficult action is sadly taken as all of those affected were part of the best boat building team in America. We are confident that with our modest production plans for the balance of 2009 and a strong team of about 150 associates remaining at our Marion facility, Beneteau USA will be poised for the needed rebound of boat buying confidence which should lead to a return of normal demand for the floating dreams we create," Burdick said.
Earlier this year Beneteau celebrated the completion of its 7,000th hull and in 2006 celebrated its 20th year in Marion.
"When that recovery comes, we should be able to grow our team again. Until then we are committed that Beneteau USA will continue its presence in Marion and to operate as an important member of the Pee Dee business community. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected team members and their families. Hopefully the new administration and those in control of the economy will soon steer the necessary course to bring stability to the U.S. financial and consumer markets," Burdick.
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