Otscon Inc. to close Columbia facility, 220 employees will lose jobs

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Parking brake manufacturer Otscon, Inc. announced in a Wednesday social media post that it will be closing its Columbia facility after 36 years.

The post states that more than 220 employees – more than 150 of which are full-time – will lose their jobs. Full-time employees will be given “severance packages and outplacement support,” the post reads. A WARN notice was not posted, as of Thursday afternoon. The post did not state when the plant would close.

“The decision follows the company’s protracted financial recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic and challenging global economic conditions that have significantly impacted the automotive industry,” the post reads.

The post states that the company faced challenges in recent years, including “fluctuations in market demand, supply chain disruptions, and increasing operational costs.”

"While this decision is necessary for the long-term sustainability of our business, we recognize the significance of our presence in Columbia and the contributions of our dedicated employees over the years," Otscon Prsident Hidefumi Sato was quoted in the post. "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our employees, customers, suppliers, and the Columbia community for their support and partnership throughout our journey."  

ABC 17 News reached out to Otscon Inc