Alabama Rug Maker Lays Off Workers

Scottsboro, AL, Feb. 6, 2009--Unconfirmed reports late Thursday indicated that rug maker Maples Industries, Jackson County's largest industrial employer, laid off part of its workforce Thursday afternoon in a move designed to stay competitive in an ever-changing marketplace, the Daily Sentinel said.

The company manufactures bath and throw rugs for its own labels as well as for private label customers from its facilities in Jackson County. The family-owned business is one of the nation's largest bath and accent rug makers, selling to top specialty retailers and department stores.