Honda has announced that it will extend its production suspension.
This morning, Honda officials announced the company will eliminate five production days at the Marysville Auto Plant as well as all other plants around Ohio and North America. Honda transmission and engine plants in North America that serve Honda auto plants also will suspend production for the same time period. Officials said operations will resume April 7.
The company originally said the COVID-19 pandemic would not impact production, but last week announced it would suspend production from March 23 through March 30, with a planned return date of March 31.
This temporary suspension of production will impact approximately 27,600 Honda associates in North America, including 4,100 associates at Marysville Auto Plant and 100 associates at Performance Manufacturing Center.
Honda provided full pay for associates through March 30. Officials said Honda will “continue to provide opportunities for associates to be paid.”
“Honda will offer full pay for two days and pull ahead associate vacation for two days,” said Honda spokesman Chris Abbruzzesse. “There is no paid production work available on Monday, April 6 so associates have the option of using vacation to cover this day.”
Officials said extending the suspension is “in response to the continued steep decline in market demand across the automotive industry due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, resulting in the inability of consumers in many markets to purchase new vehicles.”
The now two-week shutdown is expected to reduce production by about 75,000 vehicles.
While the company has set a new date for return, they said that is not a guarantee. According to the release, “as the market impact of the fast-changing COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, Honda will evaluate conditions and make additional adjustments as necessary.”
“In undertaking this production adjustment, Honda is continuing to manage its business carefully through a measured approach to sales that aligns production with market demand,” according to the release.
Honda said it will utilize the time off to continue deep cleaning its production facilities and common areas “to further protect associates upon their return to the plants.”
Company officials have told associates Honda is “committed to sharing information as this situation progresses and we thank you for your cooperation and flexibility during this challenging time.”
Ohio plants impacted include the Marysville Auto Plant, Performance Manufacturing Center, East Liberty Auto Plant, Honda of America Mfg. Anna Engine Plant and Honda Transmission Manufacturing of America. The production suspension also includes manufacturing plants in Indiana, Alabama, Georgia, Canada and Mexico.