To protect jobs, stay competitive, Libbey plans millions in upgrades

TOLEDO (AP) -- Libbey Inc. says it will invest $40 million to $60 million to upgrade and replace equipment in its factory here, helping the glassmaker keep up with foreign competition and protecting about 1,070 jobs in the Toledo area.
Libbey chief executive John Meier said the three-year investment will automate some inspection, packaging and shipping duties. About half the money will be used to buy new equipment.
In return, the company is getting an incentive package that includes at least $6 million in savings on local property taxes and state inventory taxes over 10 years.
"This city is the Glass City and it is the glass capital of the world," Meier said. "This collaborative effort announced today goes a long way in having Toledo keep that distinction."
Workers were concerned about Libbey investing at other plants, Harmon said. Union wages average $13 to $14.50 an hour, he said.
Libbey has two other U.S. glass plants in Shreveport, La., and City of Industry, Calif. Toledo lost 85 jobs to the Louisiana plant in October after officials there came up with a better incentive package for the consolidation of Libbey's drinking-glass decorating unit.
Plant manager Bill Herb acknowledged the new equipment planned for the Toledo plant likely will eliminate some jobs. It's unclear how many could be cut, he said.