GASTONIA (AP) — The closing of a plant in Gastonia will eliminate the jobs of 220 people.
The Gaston Gazette reported that Apex Tool Group is moving the work in Gastonia to factories and warehouses in Dallas and in China.
The Gastonia plant is to close in June.
Spokeswoman Kelly Blazek says tools have been made at the plant since 1978 when it was owned by the Moore Co.
The company has been best known for its American-made Craftsman tools. The company also makes and packages other tool brands.
Blazek says Gastonia employees can apply for other positions with the company. The nearest remaining Apex Took plant is in the Raleigh area.
The company will offer severance packages to the laid-off workers.