Auto parts plant lays off quarter of it’s force

BENNETTSVILLE, S.C. (AP) - A Bennettsville plant is laying off about a quarter of its employees.

Economic development officials in Marlboro County told the Morning News of Florence that Musashi South Carolina, Inc. laid off 54 workers this week.

The company makes gears for all-terrain vehicles and automobile parts, and officials blamed the layoffs on the downturn in the auto industry.

Officials say the company will keep 229 workers.