Dept. of Workforce Development: Wisconsin Business Closing & Mass Layoff (WARN) Notices: Graphic Packaging International Inc. and Sodexo Inc.

DWD has received the following Wisconsin Business Closing and Mass Layoff (WARN) notices:

Graphic Packaging International, Inc. – As previously reported, Graphic Packaging International, Inc. is expected to close its facility located at 160 Washington St. Menasha, WI 54952 on or around December 1, 2016. The closure will affect approximately 230 employees with the first separations occurring during the fourteen day period beginning on July 16, 2016 and ending on July 30, 2016. Fox Valley Workforce Development Area Rapid Response will offer Rapid Response services to the affected workers.

Sodexo, Inc. – Due to the loss of a contract, Sodexo will be closing its operations at the Waukesha School District, located at 201 S. Prairie Avenue, Waukesha, WI 53186. This action is expected to affect approximately 70 employees beginning on June 15, 2016. Waukesha-Ozaukee-Washington Workforce Development Area Rapid Response will offer Rapid Response services to the affected workers.

Contact: DWD Communications, 608-266-2722 Workforce Development Dislocated Worker Services Summary

The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Dislocated Worker Program provides transition assistance to workers and companies affected by permanent worker layoffs. The Program’s local Rapid Response Teams help companies and worker representatives develop and implement a practical transition plan based on the size of the layoff event. Types of services include: pre-layoff workshops on a variety of topics such as resume writing and interviewing, job search strategies, and budgeting provision of information about programs and resources through written materials and information sessions career and resource fairs.

Workers affected by permanent layoff may also access basic re-employment services at no charge through the state’s Job Centers. Some services, including training assistance, may be an option for some workers after enrolling in one or more of DWD’s workforce development programs. While all companies faced with permanent worker layoffs are encouraged to seek assistance from the local Rapid Response Teams, some companies may be required to give 60 days notice before a mass layoff or closing under federal and/or state law. More information about advance notice requirements is available at https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/dislocatedworker/.