Layoffs at Hanes

Winston-Salem, N.C.–based Hanesbrands Inc., maker of the Hanes, Champion, Playtex, Bali and Wonderbra brands, announced plans to eliminate about 210 management and corporate positions in an effort to reduce costs and “navigate the challenging economic environment.” About half of the layoffs will be among Hanesbrands’ supply-chain management organization. The rest will be in customer management, finance, human resources, information technology and marketing. Affected employees will receive severance and outplacement benefits. Of the 210 positions being eliminated, about 155 are in Winston-Salem, 35 are at other U.S. locations and 20 are at international locations. Hanesbrands also plans to close its yarn-production plant in China Grove, N.C., by the end of the year, citing a decline in demand for higher-end ring-spun yarn used for underwear, sock and T-shirt products. About 185 employees will be affected by the plant closure.