From WBIR.com
Estes Express Lines has confirmed layoffs at the Knoxville terminal.
According to a statement from Billy Hupp, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, the recession has negatively impacted the freight transportation industry.
He said reduced freight volumes in Knoxville forced the company to reduce their local workforce. Although he didn't reveal how many employees were let go, Hupp said 12,000 workers remain with the company nationwide.
His complete statement is below:
The recession has had a significant impact on the freight transportation industry. As people cut back on spending, companies stock less inventory and manufacturers cut production resulting in significantly less freight to haul.
While Estes is weathering the recession better than most carriers, reduced freight volumes in the Knoxville area require that Estes adjust its operations at the Knoxville terminal. Regretfully, these changes include a reduction in workforce at the terminal.
Our employees are our most valued asset, and the decision to implement these changes was not taken lightly nor was the decision made overnight. However, the prolonged recession now necessitates that Estes adjust its workforce to this continued lack of freight volume.
Reducing workforce is one of the most heartbreaking things a company must do because its effects are far-reaching and extend to both families and communities. We are committed to keeping these reductions at a minimum; however, we must do everything we can to preserve the stability of the company and in doing so, protect the jobs of more than 12,000 remaining Estes employees across the nation during these difficult times.
We also remain committed to serving the Knoxville region and to maintaining our operations there. We look forward to more positive economic times and to speedy economic recovery for this region.
Billy Hupp
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
October 19, 2009