DuPont Photomasks Closes European Operations
The closing facilities are described as "trailing-edge". The consolidation plans are subject to compliance with local laws and regulations, including consultations with the relevant works councils, which are underway.
The company plans to produce its leading-edge 180nm and below photomasks at a new commercial production facility in Dresden, Germany, announced earlier this year. Operations in Dresden are scheduled to begin by Q2 2004.
The Rousset and Hamburg facilities would continue to serve as front-end regional centers for technical and sales support. The company anticipates completing consolidation of the European operations within 10 months. These initiatives are expected to reduce the global workforce by 8% - 140 positions - once fully implemented.
In the USA, the company will reduce its global workforce by 2% percent - 30 positions - in Round Rock, Texas.
