In a news release issued today (Thursday), Caterpillar said it would temporarily lay off employees at its Clayton and Sanford plants. The company did not say how many people it planned to let go, but said it made the decision in response to reduced product demand. Also, Caterpillar said it was planning what it called “non-production days” at both plants next year.

“Caterpillar will offer job-training assistance and other benefits to the laid-off employees to assist them during this difficult time,” the news release stated. “We regret the need to take these steps, and we understand this will cause disruptions in the lives of employees and their families. During these uncertain times, we must take steps to position Caterpillar for long-term success.”

Also today (Thursday), Caterpillar notified 814 production employees of indefinite layoffs at its engine-assembly plant in Mossville, Ill. Orders for engines have decreased significantly in recent months, the company said.

A Caterpillar employee stated that layoffs would begin at the Clayton plant Jan. 3.

The layoffs are scheduled to begin Feb. 23 in Mossville.