Newell Rubbermaid employees in Tennessee were told that 200 manufacturing positions will leave the Maryville facility between now and Sept. 1, with production being moved to facilities in Greenville, Texas, and Mogadore, Ohio.
According to company spokesperson Connie Bryant, approximately 200 manufacturing and 200 distribution positions will remain at the Maryville facility.

The Maryville facility opened in January 1989 and it manufactures components for writing instruments, office products and chair mats.

Mayor Jerry Cunningham said Blount County was “blindsided” by Newell Rubbermaid’s Thursday announcement to cut a third of its full-time work force.