Palliser announces temporary changes to its workforce and manufacturing operations

WINNIPEG, March 30, 2020 /CNW/ - Palliser Furniture Ltd. announced today that it will make temporary changes to its workforce and manufacturing operations in response to the global pandemic.

COVID-19 has caused significant disruptions for Palliser's customers and as a result, there has been an unprecedented slow-down in retail business and demand for Palliser products and services.

To continue to operate a strong and stable business into the future, Palliser has made the difficult decision to temporarily close its Winnipeg facility, effective Monday, March 30th for a period of two weeks and will look to implement a similar strategy in its Mexican facilities in the coming weeks. With this, the company has had to temporarily layoff 72% of its workforce.

"I am proud that we have created 3,000 jobs in our worldwide facilities, and we will not give up on any of these Palliser team members," affirmed Peter Tielmann, President and CEO of Palliser. Palliser is actively exploring workshare along with additional assistance programs for employees impacted by these temporary layoffs.

"Management has taken the threat of the pandemic on our people and our business with the utmost seriousness. The health and safety of our diverse Palliser team members and their families have been, and remains our top priority," says Tielmann.

For over 75 years, Palliser has been a dependable manufacturing partner to a vast network of retailers and a stable employer with 3,000 individuals employed worldwide and close to 700 in Winnipeg alone. Throughout this time of uncertainty, Palliser is committed to business continuity and maintaining its reputation as a steward of the community and dependable business partner during the recovery period.

About Palliser Furniture Ltd.

Headquartered in Winnipeg, MB, Palliser is the largest manufacturer of upholstered leather furniture in North America with operations in Canada, Mexico, Indonesia and China employing over 3,000 individuals globally. For over 75 years, Palliser has remained a family-owned business known for its exceptional commitment to quality. The company produces a full range of case pieces, fabric and leather upholstered products.

In 2019, Palliser partnered with designer and HGTV personality Sarah Richardson to produce four fully merchandised collections which showcase a broad array of living, bedroom and dining pieces and extends the company's offerings into new categories of rugs and textiles.

In addition to manufacturing a product line under the Palliser brand, Palliser works as an OEM supplier to a variety of mid to high end furniture industry leaders.

SOURCE Palliser