Wabash Nat. layoffs probably permanent

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Wabash National has notified about 800 associates that it does not expect to recall them.

"We sent out letters to the associates telling them we could not give them a confirmed return date," said Allison Henk, Manager of Marketing and Communications. "We don't know if we can ever call them back."

When the company announced in December it was laying employees off, it thought the move would be temporary.

The decision was prompted by unforseen economic changes and transportation industry analysis.

"Industry projections show that the demand for trailers is down 60% from what was projected a few months ago," said Henk.

The need for trailers made in Lafayette is down.

Henk said Wabash National has about 1,200 employees in Lafayette. She said the company doesn't plan to make any more production or employee level changes at this time.