KENT, Wash. March 29, 2018 – The following statement was issued by David Savage, President and CEO at Shape Technologies, the parent company of Flow International, on the moving of Flow manufacturing and operations functions from Kent, Washington, to Baxter Springs, Kansas:
“Earlier this morning, we announced to our employees that we will be moving our manufacturing and operations functions from Kent, Washington, to our facility in Baxter Springs, Kansas. Most of the transition will occur on June 30, 2018, with some limited functions continuing for three to six months post this date.
“This was not an easy decision. After a great deal of consideration and analysis, we needed to make the tough choice on where our US manufacturing operations would be based for the long term. The cost of doing business in the Seattle area has changed dramatically over the last few years, and the cost of manufacturing in the region continues to climb. As we look into the future, we expect these operating challenges to continue to increase, and we are taking the step now to combine operations in order to remain competitive in our marketplace.
“Working with our manufacturing professionals in Kent has been a privilege. Day in and out, they’ve demonstrated hard work and dedication to our customers and to Flow. We recognize their efforts, and we are doing everything we can to ensure they transition into new careers. In addition to providing three-months’ notice, we are providing severance packages to all affected employees.
“It is important to note that this activity in no way changes how Flow serves its customers. The Flow leadership team, along with the design, engineering, commercial and financial activities of Flow will remain in Kent Washington for the long term, and we are planning investment in new facilities in Kent in 2019 to support our continued growth.
“Again, these are never easy decisions. We are thankful for the contributions of all our affected employees and are committed to helping them transition into new careers.”
About Flow International
Flow International Corporation, a Shape Technologies Group company, is a leading ultra high-pressure manufacturing process solution provider. As the world leader in waterjet technology, the company is committed to delivering highly innovative solutions and world class customer experience to a wide customer base. For more information, visit www.FlowWaterjet.com.