Ironwood plant to close in February citing changes in market

IRONWOOD, Mich. (WLUC) - Wisconsin-based steel company Waupaca Foundry is closing its Ironwood plant in February according to a press release sent out by the company Monday.

The closure comes after the plant opened in July 2019, thanks to a $1.2 million investment from the Michigan Strategic Fund. The plant processes complex parts used in the agriculture industry and, during the time of opening, was expected to generate $4.3 million in private investment to the Gogebic County region.

In the press release, officials cite a sharp decline year-over-year in the agriculture sector, changes in customer purchasing habits, labor shortages and shipping costs as factors in the company’s decision.

The company says all 18 employees at the facility have been offered relocation to iron foundry operations in Marinette and Waupaca, Wis., or Tell City, Ind.

“We have been fortunate to have a highly skilled workforce in Ironwood,” said Human Resources Manager Carmen Peskie. “We sincerely appreciate their dedication and service and hope many will explore opportunities at our other manufacturing facilities.”

Waupaca says all iron casting grinding and finishing work processed at the Ironwood facility will be relocated to its other plants.

The company was purchased in 2014 by Hitachi Metals Group. Waupaca Foundry operates three Wisconsin-based foundries in Waupaca and Marinette and another in Tell City, Indiana. The company also operates a machining center and is headquartered in Waupaca, Wis.