Nearly 1,000 Wisconsin jobs cut in March

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Four companies in Wisconsin announced layoffs in March that will impact a total of 982 workers, more than double the number of job cuts reported in February. The impacted businesses include Charter Communications, United Natural Foods Inc., Cree Lighting, and Midwest Energy Resources Company.

Why it matters

The layoffs come as Wisconsin's unemployment rate has hovered just above 3% for months, indicating a tight labor market even as businesses struggle to find adequate staffing. The job cuts also highlight the economic challenges facing some industries in the state.

The details

Charter Communications plans to close its Appleton facility, impacting 313 workers. United Natural Foods will close a Sturtevant facility, affecting 443 employees. Cree Lighting will lay off 172 workers and shut down manufacturing at its Sturtevant headquarters, though workers have sued the company over lack of proper notice. Midwest Energy Resources Company will close its Superior facility, cutting 54 jobs.

• The Charter Communications layoffs are expected to begin on or around May 21.
• The United Natural Foods layoffs are expected to start on June 20 and continue until August 1.
• The Cree Lighting layoffs were announced on March 12.
• The Midwest Energy Resources layoffs are expected to begin on June 30 and continue until July 31.

What’s next

Unemployment data for January, February, and March in Wisconsin is scheduled to be released on April 2, April 16, and April 30, respectively, which will provide more insight into the state's labor market.