Jobst to cut 200 North Carolina manufacturing jobs, moves to Mexico

Jobst is one the of largest and best known compression hosiery brands in the United States.  We were caught by surprise to learn that, in a cost-cutting measure, all US production is being moved to Reynosa, Mexico.  The BSN Jobst facility in Rutherford College, NC is now in the process of being closed.  We’ve been assured by Jobst that the quality of their stockings will remain the same. They will be knit on the same machines, with the same fibers, just in a location with cheaper labor.

The Jobst move will have a profound impact in that North Carolina region’s economy.

The Morganton, NC News Herald quotes Rutherford College Town Manager Kenneth B. Geathers Jr. as saying, “A bigger issue is the effect it will have on the town’s human capital.  The field of manufacturing has gradually been dissolving before our eyes. If you built a life here in Burke County and you were an employee of BSN, you’ve got to start all over.”

Speaking on behalf of BSN Medical (the parent company) Ann Maitland, group director of global operations said “I regret these developments for our plant here in Rutherford College, but out of a business perspective this decision was indispensable to secure the long-term success of our company. We want to thank all colleagues for their contribution to BSN and wish them the best for their future.”

BrightLife Direct salutes our other suppliers who have chosen to keep manufacturing in the USA, providing the kinds of jobs that are necessary to maintain the strong communities in which they are located.  Sigvaris is made in Georgia.  Mediven, Therafirm and Allegro (our private label brand) are made in North Carolina.  Juzo is made in Ohio.  LympheDivas are knit in North Carolina and printed & pressed in Massachusetts. Thanks guys!