Jan 7th, 2009 · Chris Hurt, professor of agricultural economics at Purdue University, talks about the ongoing trouble for the ethanol industry. Hurt explains how volatile commodity prices are affecting the industry. A plant in Plainview, Neb., announced a temporary shutdown this week, and other ethanol companies have put plans to build new plants on hold.
Dec 18th, 2008 · The Bush administration said on Thursday that it wouldn't let U.S. automakers fall apart — at least not without some structured plan. But it's not just the Detroit Three that are in dire straits. Inventories are stacking up and consumers are steering clear of car purchases for all makes and models.
Dec 17th, 2008 · Ailing automaker Chrysler is shutting down all its manufacturing operations for at least a month. All three Detroit automakers routinely close for a couple of weeks around Christmas, but Chrysler says it is extending the shutdown because there isn't enough demand for vehicles.
Dec 9th, 2008 · The tide of migrant Chinese workers is starting to show a permanent shift toward inland, non-factory jobs as the flagging economy continues to force manufacturing shutdowns. An influx of new, skilled labor combined with dwindling numbers of jobs is forcing laborers to return home.
Nov 13th, 2008 · The slowing economy is hitting Renault and other European automakers, forcing them to slash production. In the French car racing town of Le Mans, the temporary shutdown at the Renault factory has many worried about the future.
Sep 14th, 2008 · Government officials are assessing the damage to oil refineries along the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane Ike idled nearly all of the region's oil and natural gas out and it could be several weeks before refineries are back at full capacity. Gasoline prices have begun to rise around the country.
Jul 1st, 2008 · Chrysler plans to shut down a minivan plant in St. Louis, Mo., which will affect about 2,400 factory workers. New sales figures are due out Wednesday, and they are expected to show an industry reeling from a swift change in consumer preferences. Dustin Dwyer reports from Michigan Radio.
Mar 14th, 2008 · Chrysler has announced it will shut down factories for two weeks in July as a money-saving strategy. New York Times reporter Micheline Maynard talks about what the move says about the company's health.