U.S. Pipe & Foundry Co. ceases operations at its U.S. Castings Anniston, Alabama plant. (Membership Memo).

U.S. Pipe & Foundry Co., Inc., Birmingham, Alabama, ceased production and manufacturing operations at its U.S. Castings Plant, Anniston, Alabama, in April. The decision came after several years of declining financial results at the U.S. Castings Div., resulting in the loss of 80 jobs.

The plant, which manufactured ductile and gray iron castings, faced competition from both domestic and foreign producers in recent years. According to U.S. Pipe President Brad Kitterman, the firm would have required major capital investment to become competitive, which was not feasible given the divisions inadequate financial returns.

"We regret that this decision had to be made because of its impact on our employees in Anniston," Kitterman said. "Unfortunately, it does not make economic sense to continue these operations."

U.S. Pipe is one of the nation's largest domestic producers of ductile iron pipe, selling to municipalities and contractors for potable and wastewater transmission. Its products include pipe, fittings, valves and housings.