Spartan Motors Cutting Workforce in Restructuring

Automotive chassis maker Spartan Motors Inc. said Wednesday it is taking several steps to help save money, including cutting jobs.

The company did not specify how many positions would be eliminated, but other steps Spartan is taking is selling its ambulance-making unit, reducing retainer fees of its directors and cutting the salaries of members of its executive team.

“Although these decisions are never easy, as they impact the lives of our associates and the communities we serve, we believe these actions will result in improved effectiveness in our operations,” said John Sztykiel, President and CEO of Spartan Motors.

Spartan Motors operates such brand names as Spartan, Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Utilimaster.

The company employs approximately 1,500 people at facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Indiana and Texas.  Spartan reported sales of $430 million in 2009 and is focused on becoming a global leader in the manufacture of specialty vehicles and chassis.