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Magazines Archives - 2008 March
Levi’s to close 36-year-old
Manila plant
Story 10
ICONIC denim-apparel company
Levi’s Strauss & Co has announced the closure of its 36-year-old
Philippine cut-and-sew apparel plant in Manila by July 31 this
year. Levi Strauss Philippines Inc
country manager Ramon Martelino said that the shutdown, which
would lay off 257 employees, would stem costs.
The plant has been producing Levi’s jeans
for the Philippines and other Asian markets since 1972.
“This has been a very difficult decision for us. We have examined
comprehensively all other options, including cost containment, and
improving the efficiency and productivity of this plant as first options.
Unfortunately, such measures cannot overcome the significantly lower costs
of outsourcing,” he said.
Brands under the Levi’s portfolio, namely
Levi’s and Dockers, will continue to be sold in the country
through a large franchised retail distribution network. Officials said the
goods would be sourced from a handful of selected contractors in Asia.
“Levi Strauss & Co regards the Philippines as a key market in the
Asia-Pacific. This move reaffirms our marketing presence as we remain
committed to bringing premium quality, branded Levi’s and Dockers products
as well as innovative
marketing programmes to both our customers and consumers,” Martelino said. |
