Layoffs, bankruptcies batter U.S. logistics and manufacturing at start of 2026

Kroehler Furniture Co. permanently closed its Conover, North Carolina, manufacturing facility on Dec. 31. The closure will result in the layoff of more than 275 employees, according to a state WARN notice.PCA said the move is part of a restructuring aimed at improving the mill’s long-term viability amid high wood fiber and energy costs that have made the facility less competitive.The layoffs are expected to take effect in February. Other parts of the mill — including a recycled pulping operation and a separ ...