Hutchinson Technology layoffs go into overdrive

By Dan Haugen | Published Tue, Jan 13 2009 10:06 am

The layoffs will be more severe than expected at Hutchinson Technology. The company, which makes components used in computer disc drives, said Monday that it now plans to reduce its workforce by 1,380.

That's about 30 percent of its workforce. Last month, the company said it was planning to cut between 20 and 25 percent.

A spokeswoman told the Star Tribune that the added layoffs can be attributed to an even lower demand outlook for 2009. About 950 jobs will be lost in Hutchinson, and another 50 eliminated at a Plymouth facility.

Hutchinson Technology said in a statement that it won't comment further on the restructuring until it issues its first-quarter results Jan. 27.