In a significant development for Anderson County, Electrolux has announced plans to lay off 1,255 workers at its local plant starting in July 2026.

This decision comes as the company enters a joint venture with China-based Midea Group, aiming to transform the facility's production focus.

The Anderson plant, which has been a cornerstone of the county's industrial base since 1988, currently manufactures refrigerators.

Under the new partnership, production will shift to washers and dryers, with operations expected to commence in the first half of 2027.

According to a statement from Electrolux, the joint venture is designed to "accelerate profitable growth and strengthen innovation" in North America.

The company anticipates that the partnership will create 1,200 skilled manufacturing jobs and indirectly generate an additional 1,800 jobs in the community, contributing nearly $3 billion in economic benefits for South Carolina.

Anderson County Manager Rusty Burns expressed concern over the layoffs, stating, "Twelve-hundred is horrible."

He noted that the plant is expected to be down for six months for retooling, and all employees will be eligible for rehire once operations resume.

In a letter to employees, Electrolux outlined a separation pay schedule: four weeks of pay for those with less than four years of service, and up to 26 weeks for those with over ten years.

Employees will also receive continued benefits coverage corresponding to their separation pay duration.

Despite the layoffs, Burns highlighted the availability of other employment opportunities in the area, stating, "We have a whole lot of companies that are hiring right now, eager for employees."

In related news, Signature Foods USA recently announced an $11.5 million investment in Anderson County, expected to create 202 new jobs.

The company will produce high-quality dips and spreads at its new facility in Easley.

As the community navigates these changes, local officials remain optimistic about the region's economic resilience and the potential for new opportunities arising from these developments.