Siemens Canada will “wind down manufacturing” at its Peterborough facility over the next two years, beginning immediately, affecting around 160 jobs.
In an announcement on Wednesday (June 25), the technology company stated it will be consolidating its Peterborough operations at its other Ontario plant, located in Concord.
Located at 1954 Technology Drive in Peterborough, Siemens Milltronics Process Instruments Inc. develops ultrasonic measurement instruments for process industries such as water and wastewater, oil and gas, chemical, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and mining.
Siemens Canada acquired Milltronics Ltd. in 2000 for $335 million. At the time, Milltronics had annual sales of $119 million and operated in 12 countries.
“The manufacturing of measurement intelligence technologies currently located in Peterborough will move into an existing Siemens facility in Concord that manufactures the company’s RuggedCom portfolio of industrial grade communications equipment,” a media release states.
Around 70 new manufacturing jobs will be created in Concord as a result of the consolidation of operations, according to the company.
“These actions are necessary for Siemens’ industrial automation business to become more competitive in a challenging market environment with increased competitive pressures,” the company states.
“Siemens understands the impact this action has on employees and the local Peterborough community, and the company is dedicated to managing this process with transparency and respect.”
“Siemens is committed to supporting employees who are affected and will implement a comprehensive support program to assist employees during this period of change.”
In a statement, Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal says “This morning’s announcement from Siemens Canada was very difficult to hear for our community.”
“I’ve been told that the people in the affected positions will be offered jobs at other Siemens facility locations or other supports if they choose not to accept relocation,” he states.
“The loss of these jobs in Peterborough is deeply concerning to the affected individuals, their families, and our entire community. I appreciate Siemens’ commitment to do all they can to help affected employees.”
According to the mayor, Siemens will still operate in Peterborough with 40 employees, but will be seeking to lease its 183,000 square-foot facility on Technology Drive to another manufacturer.
“The city’s economic development division has already connected with Siemens and will work diligently alongside them to find a new tenant for that facility as soon as possible,” Leal states.
“I want to thank Siemens for their long history of good corporate citizenship in Peterborough. The company and its employees have consistently donated their time and money to charitable causes in our community, including the Salvation Army and the Peterborough Humane Society. While the company is reducing its presence in Peterborough, it remains committed to our community as part of its global corporate restructuring.”
