In the wake of the downturn in automotive sales, Aisin Automotive Castings at Lily has instituted a Voluntary Time Off (VTO) for about 100 employees. An announcement from John Gilbert, human resources manager, said Monday that last week all hourly and salaried workers were told that “continuing economic conditions require Aisin Automotive Casting to temporarily reduce staffing.”
His announcement said 100 of the plant’s approximately 700 employees chose the VTO status, which will run from Feb. 2 to May 4. The employees will maintain medical coverage and other company benefits, but will also be eligible to collect state unemployment insurance payments. He said the group may be called back to work during that time period, “based on business conditions.” Gilbert said Aisin decided that the VTO approach is better than a “regular lay off” right now. “Although these decisions are difficult, we believe they are in the best long-term interest of Aisin Automotive Casting, our customers and our suppliers,” he said. He added, “We appreciate the support of our team members and suppliers as we move forward and will continue to keep the communication channels open.”
