Parker Hannifin's Racor Division preparing to close

BEAUFORT, SC (WTOC) - A manufacturer in Beaufort is getting ready to close its doors for good. Parker Hannifin's Racor Division makes fuel, air and oil filtration systems for engines.

This will affect dozens of employees. More than 70 people will be laid off once the downsizing begins. The company says it is consolidating its operations, and the manufacturing that is being done in the Beaufort plant will move to its other locations.

Since lots of families in the Lowcountry will be affected by the layoffs, the plant is working with the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce and other local employers to find jobs for their employees. The Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce President says this is a huge blow to the Beaufort economy and community. But, she is hoping they can use the facilities to attract another business to the area.

"It's not good news for the folks that work there and it's not good for our community. We're trying to present ourselves as a very business friendly, pro-business environment and to have one of our major employers, an international multi-billion dollar company decides that Beaufort's not going to their home anymore, it's not good news for us," said Blakely Williams, Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The company will start its downsizing and layoff processes in October. The plant is expected to close at the end of December.

Copyright 2015 WTOC. All rights reserved.