Paul,

I've cut an article out of a Japanese newspaper for you today. About 36
hours ago at night one of Mazda's factory caught fire and burned for 7 hours
before the fireman could get it under control. The company officials could
not comment on the cause as the fireman and police were still investigating,
but there is speculation that the fire originated in the painting area on
the assembly line of one of the more popular piston engine cars.  As far a
we could tell from last night news the RX-8 line and rotary engine plant was
unaffected. Whew!!

The news went on to describe how 1000 workers within Mazda will ... how to
say this kindly.....immediately be on extended leave for the holidays and
quite a while afterwards .  Many subcontractors are going to have to lay off
workers as well. It seems Mazda has been enjoying great sales  this year
with ALL four factories doing double production. Another blow for Hiroshima.

On the bright side perhaps they can put in some new equipment.  Mazda has
been struggling for years now and has some pretty old factories. Hope they
have a good insurance policy.

Doug in Japan

 
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