Shaw announced that it will be cutting 194 associates at Plant 8S, its Columbia, S.C.-based fiber manufacturing plant, in the near future. The reduction is being made to "balance production across Shaw's heatset fiber facilities," according to the company.

Representatives from Shaw's human resources group are on site to assist associates with all issues related to the decision. Shaw is also working with South Carolina's Department of Employment & Workforce Rapid Response group, which will provide associates with information on training, other career opportunities and unemployment benefits. Shaw said it will also coordinate a job fair where impacted associates can meet with other prospective employers.

"Shaw expresses its sincere gratitude to the associates at Plant 8S for their years of support and service. The decision to reduce staffing at Plant 8S in no way reflects on their performance," the company said in a statement.