The Cigar Factory In Selma To Close; 213 Jobs Lost

SELMA, Ala. (AP)—A national cigar maker has announced it will close its factory in Selma, laying off more than 200 workers.

The company, Altadis USA, is shutting down the plant on Dec. 5.

Plant manager Vlencon Brown told The Selma Times-Journal that the 213 employees will be paid through Dec. 15.

Richard McKenzie, senior vice president of human resources for Altadis, said Nov. 14 is the last production day at the plant, which began making cigars in Selma in 1941.

Employees received notices Tuesday morning. The company cited government regulations, smoking restrictions, rising taxes and a decrease in demand for the blunt-shaped cigar as reasons for the closing.