Aleris to idle Coldwater and other aluminum alloy plants

US aluminum alloy maker Aleris plans to idle its Coldwater, Michigan, and other secondary aluminum alloy plants due to US automotive makers General Motors and Chrysler planning to shut their plants for several months. A company spokeswoman said that "In response to recently announced factory shutdowns by General Motors and Chrysler, a number of our specification alloy plants will be temporarily idled, including our Coldwater facility.” The spokesman added that "The specific timing and length of the shutdown will vary by plant based on current demand and inventory levels. We will continue to ship during this period and maintain necessary staff to manage any operations, security or administration work remaining at the sites." She further added that "As customer demand increases, employees will be recalled accordingly." (Sourced from Platts)