Layoffs at Stanley Black & Decker began Monday as a result of the New Britain plant closing.
The company says 287 employees will be laid off between now and May 18.
A spokesperson says the closure is due to a "structural decline in demand for single-sided tape measures."
The union representing the workers released the following statement after the closure was
announced in February:
“The IAM Union is deeply disappointed by Stanley Black & Decker’s announcement to close its manufacturing plant in New Britain, Conn., a move that will devastate hundreds of hardworking IAM Local 1433 members and the broader community that has supported this company for generations.
We are still gathering information on this closure and will have more to say in the days ahead. Our members showed up every day and gave their best to this company, and they deserve answers, respect, and every protection available to them under their collective bargaining agreement and the law.
The IAM Union will stand with these workers every step of the way.”