EdisonReport has learned that Simkar laid off about 75 people during this year; approximately half in the spring and half in October. We spoke to Glenn Grunewald, CEO, who explained, “As the business changes, so do the skill set requirements. We did layoff mechanical engineers, but we also hired electrical engineers.” He went on to say that they have hired 15 to 20 people during the same time period in various capacities, including marketing and inside sales. Recently, Simkar hired Jeff Hirsch as the National Inside Sales Manager.
Glenn and I had a great discussion at LIGHTFAIR where he spoke to me about upcoming changes in their business. He explained that as their business evolves from a large fluorescent manufacturer to LED, Simkar will have less emphasis on manufacturing and more focus on assembly work.
Today, he said the transformation continues on schedule.