Carter Holt Harvey to Announce Future of Tokoroa Plywood Plant

Workers at the Carter Holt Harvey plywood plant in Tokoroa, New Zealand, are anxiously awaiting news about their employment status. An announcement regarding the factory’s future is expected on Tuesday morning, after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the plant’s operations.

On September 15, 2023, Carter Holt Harvey initiated consultations about the potential closure of the Tokoroa facility. This decision could result in the loss of up to 119 full-time jobs, as the company considers shifting to importing plywood from overseas rather than producing it locally.

The Tokoroa plywood plant has been a significant employer in the area, contributing to the local economy and providing jobs for many residents. The impending announcement has raised concerns among workers and their families, as well as within the community about the potential economic impact of the closure.

Carter Holt Harvey, a major player in the forestry and wood products sector, has not disclosed specific reasons for the proposed closure but has indicated that the move is part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing costs. The company’s decision to explore importing plywood highlights the competitive pressures facing local manufacturers.

As the announcement date approaches, employees are preparing for both outcomes: the possibility of job losses or a reprieve that may allow the plant to continue operations. The situation underscores the challenges faced by the manufacturing sector in New Zealand, particularly in light of increasing global competition and changing market dynamics.

The Tokoroa plywood plant’s future remains uncertain, but the impact of the decision will undoubtedly resonate throughout the local community, affecting not just the workers but also local businesses and services dependent on the plant’s operations. As stakeholders await further details, the focus remains on the well-being of the employees and the economic health of the region.