New Era plant fights for its future

DERBY, N.Y. (WIVB) - It's the kind of news a close-knit community like Evans doesn't want to hear.

People are waking up to the reality that New Era cap company's Derby plant is in a fight for its future. New Era, a locally owned, family-run business, with roots dating back to 1920, says it can no longer afford to keep all three of its U.S. manufacturing plants open.

New Era has already decided to close a plant in Jackson, Alabama and a distribution center in Mobile, next year.

That leaves two plants in Dempolis and Derby. One will stay open, the other will shut down. The Derby plant is home to some 300 workers.

"To lose a business tax wise is certainly harmful but for our community, those are jobs that won't be replaced," said Karen Erickson, Town of Evans Deputy Supervisor.