Published media reports quoted company Vice President Gary Carlson as saying that some employees were laid off while some others were given timelines for leaving. HNI employs about 4000 people at its Muscatine plant.
The reports did not disclose the number of jobs lost though the company had announced in October that it could lay off as many as 200 people following a 55% decline its its earnings over the first three quarters of 2008.
Carlson was quoted as saying that the company did not release the number of people laid off because there were doubts over their accuracy as HNI had continuosly balanced its employment level with their order books.
HNI is a provider of office furniture and hearth products, comprising seven companies, each of which provides a wide range of office furniture and products.
The range from products that include panel systems, seating, desks, storage files and tables to wood case goods, modular desking, conference products, and seating.
