Congoleum Flooring, the Trenton-based maker of flooring products, announced it has closed its tile plant in the capital city, leaving as many as 40 people unemployed.
The company said in a news release that the move is part of its simplification of its business model, which includes the adjustment of its manufacturing footprint. The factory, which employed 40 people, will complete closure this month.
“It was a difficult decision because it impacts people’s lives,” Congoleum CEO Chris O’Connor said in a prepared statement. “But it is an important step in paving the way for future investments that will make Congoleum a stronger, more competitive employer, manufacturer and supplier.”
Among other changes, Congoleum is renovating its corporate headquarters and investing in personnel and infrastructure, it said.
“We’re also expanding our design, R&D and customer service teams,” O’Connor said. “Our goal is to deliver exceptional market value for every product that carries the Congoleum brand.”
Capital expenditure projects include manufacturing sites in Pennsylvania and Maryland, as well, the company noted. The company is also planning a new distribution center at an undisclosed location.
