Schneider's plant goes through first round of layoffs

The first phase of the closing of the Schneiders plant in Kitchener began on Labour Day, when 150 workers at the plant lost their jobs.

Schneiders closed its distribution centre Monday, and will be eventuallymoving all plant operations to Hamilton.

Half of the workers will remain at the centre for several weeks to help with the transition of operations to Puslinch, Ont.

"Hamilton had a number of strong opportunities that benefitted our expansion strategy including access to major a highways, a skilled workforce and the physical proximity needed for a plant expansion," said Dave Bauer, a spokesperson at Maple Leaf Foods, which acquired Schneider's in 2005.

Bauer said just over one thousand jobs would be affected by the closure of the entire plant.

"We are very committed helping our people transition to new employment. We deeply regret the impact that this decision has on our workforce," Bauer said.

"Were working very closely with the city and other local partners to help employees find new employment in the region."

The manufacturing plant is expected to be phased out by 2014.