LOGAN, Utah -- About 400 employees at Icon Health & Fitness in Logan will be laid off in October, city officials confirmed Tuesday.
Logan Mayor H. Craig Petersen said the company is one of the city’s larger employers so the layoffs will be felt across Cache Valley since many of those impacted live in surrounding communities.
According to the Icon Health & Fitness website, the company is the world’s largest manufacturer and marketer of home fitness equipment.
Despite the massive number of people suddenly unemployed, Petersen said, he believes those individuals will be able to find new jobs.
The unemployment rate in Cache Valley is at 2.8 percent, the mayor said. Layoffs are expected to take effect in October.
Scott Watterson, Chairman and CEO of the company released the following statement:
"These decisions are tough, but important to ensure continued long-term profitability and competitiveness for our employees. “We have kept as much manufacturing here as long as we could.
“The company thanks all our employees for their dedication and years of service. We especially wish to express our appreciation to those who are affected by this decision. As such, the company will provide a severance and incentive package for employees who stay through the end of the production period. In addition, these employees will receive assistance in finding jobs inside and outside the company."
A Logan police officer was called to the plant Tuesday responding to a request for extra security.
Capt. Tyson Budge with Logan police said from what he understands the company unexpectedly shut down part of their plant.
Budge said officials at the plant called police for security in case things got out of hand.
A FOX 13 News crew is en route to Logan. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
