DuPont Pioneer has laid off an undisclosed number of workers in Johnston, company officials confirmed to the Des Moines Register on Tuesday. Wochit
Iowa state officials are monitoring layoffs at DuPont Pioneer in Johnston after the company received millions of taxpayer dollars for its pledge to retain jobs.
DuPont officials acknowledged in December that it had laid off workers as it sought to "integrate our operations and establish a streamlined, efficient, built-for-purpose organization." DuPont and Dow Chemical closed their $150 billion merger in the fall, with plans of creating several smaller companies, including a new standalone ag company.
While the company previously declined to disclose the numbers of layoffs, it notified Iowa Workforce Development in January that it planned to lay off 53 workers by Jan. 31.
PREVIOUSLY: DuPont lays off undisclosed number of Iowa workers
Though Iowa lost its bid to headquarter the combined company's new ag firm here, state leaders awarded $17 million in incentives in 2016 to keep 2,600 jobs at DuPont Pioneer in Johnston.
The Iowa Economic Development Authority generally checks in with companies once a year or more frequently if certain projects warrant it to ensure they are in compliance with economic development contracts, said agency spokeswoman Kanan Kappelman.
"We are monitoring this award and recognize the need to address mutually-agreed upon adjustments contingent on the merger," Kappelman told the Register.
Last month, DuPont spokesman Gregg Schmidt told the Register that the company remains committed to Iowa.
“We expect to have a major, vibrant presence and equal or higher level of employment in Johnston over time as we build a global agriculture leader," he said.