Auto supplier Gentex lays off about 400 workers

ZEELAND, Mich. - Auto parts supplier Gentex Corp. is laying off about 400 employees, or about 15.4 percent of its work force, in response to steep drops in vehicle sales and production.

Gentex Senior Vice President Enoch Jen said Friday the company expects fourth-quarter revenue will decline 25 percent from the same period last year. That is steeper than the 15 percent drop it predicted in October. Automotive analysts expect more declines in light vehicle production.

Gentex makes rearview mirrors and fire protection products. It has about 2,600 employees.

The Zeeland, Michigan-based company has eliminated workers through voluntary layoffs and cut contract workers and a third shift. It's also had production shutdowns and plans more.

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