Kraus Flooring in Waterloo cutting more than 200 jobs

Employees with Kraus Flooring tell 570 NEWS the company is slashing 210 union jobs at its plant in Waterloo.

The workers, who are members of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, have been told that Friday could be their last day.

They've been told they will receive a call next week to explain things.

Kraus was founded back in 1959 by Michael Kraus.

The company is now owned by Hilco, a global holding company.

Here's a statement Kraus President and CEO Shawn Davies provided to 570 NEWS:

“A temporary layoff notice has been issued to employees at our plant in Waterloo. This notice was issued due to market conditions, takes effect as of September 7, 2018, and has been communicated to the relevant employees.  Our sales offices, distribution and other facilities are open and continue to operate as usual. We have nothing further to announce, but would notify our employees and make an announcement to the public if it was warranted.” he said.

Waterloo Mayor Dave Jaworsky spoke to some of the employees on Friday morning.

“They're hard working … dedicated, they're skilled workers. I'm really feeling sorry for them right now, but I think they have the kind of skills that are needed in our community … we'll see how this unfolds for them as a temporary layoff, and what more information we'll find.” he told 570 NEWS.