Bourbon Barrel-Maker Brown-Forman Reorganizes and Cuts Jobs

Big changes are happening at the Louisville-based Brown-Forman Corporation, one of the largest spirits and wine companies in the U. S. They're closing their barrel-making cooperage, which currently employs around 210 people, by April 25. This is part of a bigger plan to cut jobs globally and restructure their executive leadership team. The goal? To stay competitive in the global spirits market. Don't worry, those losing their jobs will get severance, job placement help, and other benefits. The company will now buy barrels from an external supplier to keep costs down. Worldwide, about 650 employees, or 12% of the total workforce, will be affected. It's not clear yet if other Louisville jobs are on the chopping block. The company's CEO, Lawson Whiting, thanked the staff and promised support during this transition.