Auto supplier closing in Battle Creek

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - A big portion of the American auto industry has woken up to a whole new world of doing business.

Both GM and Chrysler are out of bankruptcy and hoping to take a new leaner, meaner business model forward.

But the ripple effect across the industry is also being felt by suppliers looking to a future that may not be all that rosy.

Back in June, Yorozu automotive in Battle Creek announced dramatic cuts to its workforce and now company officials have confirmed to Newschannel 3 that the operations in Battle Creek will end later this year in November.

Back in June about 50 workers were going to lose their jobs. At the time the company said the cuts would be permanent, citing a slowdown in the auto industry.

Now it seems the rest of the workers will also be out of a job. There are about 143 employees on staff right now.

"It is with deep regret that Yorozu Automotive North America Inc. announces that is will temporarily close its facility in Battle Creek, Michigan. The unprecedented crisis of the automobile industry over the last twelve months has deeply impacted our business in Battle Creek. At this time we are considering the closure as temporary. The decision of the future status of the plant will be made when there is a clear understanding of future opportunities in the area," said Vice President of Operations John Lanier in a prepared statement.