Big Summer Shutdowns Loom for U.S. Auto Plants as Sales Sputter
- The six biggest carmakers report delivery declines in April
- Factories destined for longer-than-usual closures: consultant
Ford, Chrysler Post Weaker U.S. Sales Than Expected
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Auto workers may be getting some extra time off around Independence Day, but they won’t be celebrating. They’ll know it means sales are weak and that profits -- and profit-sharing checks -- could be shrinking.
Manufacturers used to shut plants for a week or two in July for maintenance and to keep inventories in check. As sales boomed in recent years, most factories cranked out cars without a break. This summer, widespread closures may be back, and for weeks longer than before. The reason: four straight months of declining sales and little expectation the trend will reverse anytime soon.