Title: Winnipeg Robotics Firm Faces Layoffs Amid U.S.-Canada Trade War Slowdown
Eascan Automation Inc., a Winnipeg-based robotics company, has laid off about a third of its workforce as demand declines due to ongoing trade uncertainty between Canada and the U.S. The company let go of between 20 and 23 employees last month after business dropped roughly 25% from its post-pandemic peak.
Eascan, which specializes in custom-built machines for manufacturers, primarily serves Manitoba and other parts of Canada. However, the slowdown began around the time of Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. president, said general manager Jason Andres. Many manufacturers in welding, bending, and fabricating industries have postponed automation investments due to economic uncertainty.
Steel and aluminum processors, in particular, have been impacted by a 25% tariff on metal exports to the U.S., contributing to a “complete spending freeze,” Andres said. He noted that Eascan recently lost between $3 million and $4 million in potential orders as clients backed out.
Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce CEO Loren Remillard said most local businesses are already feeling the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. Nearly half of surveyed members anticipate customer losses, layoffs, or hiring freezes as uncertainty continues. He warned that while exporters are the first to suffer, the broader economy will also feel the effects through increased costs and supply chain disruptions.
Despite the challenges, Eascan remains hopeful that business will rebound once trade relations stabilize. Sales manager Gary Kristiansen said some clients are still interested in projects but are delaying decisions. “We’re really hoping that it’s just a lull and that we’ll get back to where we want to be,” he said.
Source: Swifteradio.com
