Quanex restructuring IG spacer business; announces plans to close Barbourville, Ky., plant

Quanex Building ProductsCorp. officials announced, Nov. 7, that the company will permanently close its Barbourville, Ky., facility as part of a plan to consolidate and restructure its insulating glass spacer business. The equipment used to manufacture warm-edge spacer products in Barbourville will be relocated to the company's Cambridge, Ohio,facility, according to a release.

"While it was a very difficult decision to close our spacer facility in Kentucky, we believe this consolidation will allow us to better serve our customers through streamlined operations," said David Petratis, president and CEO, in the release. "We continually work to identify opportunities that enhance our ability to deliver outstanding products and services to our growing customer base. During the transition, our spacer customers can expect to see the same great service and experience they have grown accustomed to."

The restructuring plan also includes the consolidation of administrative functions, as well as research and development. Effective Nov. 7, George Wilson assumed the new role of general manager, Insulated Glass Systems.

The consolidation of operations and the subsequent closure of the Barbourville facility are expected to be completed during Quanex's fiscal third quarter 2012.

According to various local news reports, the Barbourville facility employs about 200 people.