In response to the prolonged downturn in the construction and building market, Uponor recently announced a plan to initiate a cost reduction program throughout North America and Europe. To structure Uponor North America for sustained profitability and growth, the company recently closed its Canadian manufacturing facility in Saint John, New Brunswick, on Sept. 10, 2008.

Uponor's global cost-reduction program also indicated that 200 positions would be affected throughout Europe and North America. Approximately 80 employees of those 200 are impacted by the Saint John closure, and Uponor is working with those affected by offering outplacement services and severance packages.

Uponor North America will recruit new employees for the company’s main manufacturing facility in Apple Valley, Minn., which will minimize the impact on the total personnel reduction in North America.