Autokinition to Close Five Facilities in Detroit, Losing 133 Jobs

News Summary

Autokinition, formerly known as Oakland Stamping LLC, has announced plans to close five facilities in Southeast Michigan, resulting in the loss of 133 jobs. The closures will affect various locations in Detroit, with layoffs anticipated from December 5 to December 19. This decision highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the manufacturing sector in the automotive industry, particularly as companies adapt to market changes and technological advancements.

Detroit

Oakland Stamping LLC, operating as Autokinition, has announced plans to close five facilities in Southeast Michigan, resulting in the loss of 133 jobs. The closures will impact multiple locations in Detroit, with affected employees set to experience layoffs between December 5 and December 19.

The sites designated for closure include:

This information regarding the layoffs was disclosed in a WARN Act notice filed on October 7 with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act requires employers to provide advance public notice of mass layoffs or site closures to ensure employees have sufficient time to prepare for potential job loss.

The positions that will be eliminated include production operators, material handlers, quality engineers, and supervisors. Many of the affected hourly employees are represented by a collective bargaining agreement with United Auto Workers Local 155.

Impact on the Local Workforce

The upcoming closures represent a substantial loss for the local workforce and are expected to have ripple effects on the automotive supply chain in the region. Autokinition has been a key player in providing automotive components and solutions, serving well-known clients such as Ford, General Motors, Chevrolet, and Volvo in recent years.

With the automotive industry undergoing shifts due to evolving consumer demands and technological advancements, companies like Autokinition are facing complex challenges. The closures highlight the difficulties that manufacturing firms are encountering amid a competitive marketplace and economic fluctuations.

Background Information on Autokinition

Autokinition, based in Detroit, has long been associated with the automotive sector, supplying essential parts and services that support vehicle production and innovation. The company’s history reflects its adaptation to market needs and the continuous evolution of automotive technology.

As changes in the industry take place—such as the shift toward electric vehicles, automation, and more sustainable practices—manufacturers are often forced to reassess their operational strategies, sometimes resulting in plant closures and job losses. In this context, Autokinition’s decision to cease operations at its locations in Detroit comes as a sign of the broader challenges facing the manufacturing sector.

Moving Forward

As the closure dates approach, the affected employees and their families will need to explore new employment opportunities. Resources may be available through the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity to assist those displaced by the layoffs.

In conclusion, the decision by Autokinition to permanently close its facilities in Southeast Michigan represents a significant change for the company and its employees, and it underscores the ongoing transformation of the automotive industry in the region.

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STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER

GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.

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