Whirlpool to cut up to 6,000 workers, company to miss fourth quarter estimates

(Grand Rapids, Michigan-AP) -- Whirlpool Corporation plans to slash up to ten percent of its work force. <br><br>How that will affect the Whirlpool facility in Tulsa remains to be seen. <br><br>The company

Thursday, December 14th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Grand Rapids, Michigan-AP) -- Whirlpool Corporation plans to slash up to ten percent of its work force.

How that will affect the Whirlpool facility in Tulsa remains to be seen.

The company says it needs to cut costs amid weakening demand, more expensive materials and increased competition.

Today's announcement came as the appliance maker said fourth quarter profits will be sharply lower than expected.

Besides Oklahoma, Whirlpool has facilities in Arkansas, Indiana, Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee, Michigan.

A Whirlpool spokesman says the Tulsa facility employs about 1,500 people. It produces gas and electric freestanding ranges.

Whirlpool shares fell more than six percent on the news of the cuts.