METCALFE- Hood Industries’ company president, Jay Galloway, announced Wednesday afternoon news of the plant’s closure in Metcalfe, effectively laying off approximately 100 employees. At a facility-wide meeting called by Hood leadership this week, reasons cited for the closure were the current volatile economy and its impact on the lumber market along with raw material and labor challenges.

“We have looked at this problem from every conceivable angle, carefully studied the numbers, and considered many factors,” Galloway told employees. “We have made the difficult decision to close the mill.”

Over the next few days, Hood officials will privately meet with employees individually to discuss the transition and share information about employment opportunities at other Hood locations in Mississippi and Louisiana.

“This was not an easy decision for any of us to make. We are well-aware of the impact this decision will have on the Metcalfe employees, their families and community,” Galloway said.

Galloway said that operations will officially cease after the remaining product has been processed, which will likely be by the end of the month.

Hood Industries plans to reevaluate the viability of the Metcalfe operation in the future, but until that time, the facility will remain closed.