Meridian Yachts to shut down; hundreds to lose jobs

By Mike Benbow Herald Writer ARLINGTON -- Meridian Yachts, one of north Snohomish County’s largest employers, will close its doors within 60 days because of a dramatic decline in boat sales, employees were told today. The company has more than 600 hourly employees, another 230 administrative positions and some research and development workers. Nearly all will lose their jobs. “Our hearts go out to them,” said Dan Kubera, director of corporate relations for the Brunswick Corp., which owns the plant. “It’s a decision that had to be made.” Kubera said the company planned to cut four plants next year and hastened that decision because of plummeting sales in July and August. “At the first of the year, sales were down 30 percent,” he said. “In the last two months, sales have dropped 40 percent.” He said the company has tried to... [read full story]