Role of Manufacturing Textile Products from Purchased Materials in the Economy of Lebanon County

Abstract

The Penn State Workforce Education and Development Initiative conducted an analysis of the economic impact of other miscellaneous textile product mills in Lebanon county in Pennsylvania. The analysis was designed to help understand the impact of the Pacific Coast Feather Company plant closing in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, effective April 30, 2010, affecting 130 employees. This plant closing was announced by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry as required through the WARN Act, a federal law that requires employers to provide 60 days notice in advance of business closing and layoffs.

The Lebanon plant manufactures down pillows and comforters to be sold under the Pacific Coast Feather Co. label, headquartered in Seattle, Washington. The Lebanon Daily News reported the layoff on March 2, 2010, citing the company's decision to consolidate the Lebanon-based plant with one located in Henderson, North Carolina.

Products provided by Pacific Coast Feather are classified in North American Industrial Classification System code 314999 - the "all other miscellaneous textile product mills" industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of the Census, establishments in this industry "are primarily engaged in manufacturing textile products (except carpets and rugs; curtains and linens; textile bags and canvas products; rope, cordage, and twine; and tire cords and tire fabrics) from purchased materials." During 2007, 38,624 U.S. workers were employed in 2,189 establishments offering support activities for transportation with a payroll of $1.1 billion.

Keywords: economic impact, textile products, regional economic analysis