Brunswick pulling the plug on Sea Pro boats

Foundering in a listless economy, Brunswick Corp. has announced plans to sink its Sea Pro line of saltwater fishing and recreational boats and shutter the Midlands plant where the vessels are made.

Some 175 South Carolina workers will lose their jobs by the end of June, as the Newberry factory winds down production.

Brunswick's chief executive, Dustan McCoy, cited high fuel prices, housing woes and an uncertain economy in explaining the decision to discontinue making Sea Pro.

"The U.S. marine industry has been in a prolonged slowdown since late 2005," McCoy said in a statement. "This market-driven action should not be viewed as a reflection on the performance of our employees."

Chicago-based Brunswick posted a $111.6 million profit last year, but its income plunged 71 percent in the first quarter of 2008, weighed down by weaker demand for boats. The company said that it will focus on its other saltwater brands, including Boston Whaler, Trophy and Hatteras.

Sea Pro boats are common sights in Charleston waterways.

Brunswick stock was trading at $16.30 on the New York Stock Exchange Friday morning, near its lowest point in five years.

For more details, see Saturday's Post and Courier.