Mix of Shock and Resignation on G.M. Shop Floors Set to Close.

The article examines reactions of General Motors (GM) employees to plans for plant shutdowns. GM workers nationwide met the news of plant closures and job cuts with shock, resignation, and frustration with management. Many of the plants that will close are over 50 years old, dating back to an era when GM dominated the American automobile market. As foreign competitors with lower labor costs and more desirable vehicles have cut down GM's market share, the automaker has struggled to regain its competitiveness. Trimming its work force and closing under-used plants is one way it hopes to do this.