By AP/KWMU
St. Louis – The Doe Run Co. says it will cut more than 100 jobs and reduce its lead mining output by 1 million tons.
The St. Louis-based lead producer said the global economic downturn has eroded the market price for the metal used in products such as car batteries.
Mine output will be reduced to 5 million tons per year, from a planned 6 million tons.
The job cuts, represent 10 percent of Doe Run's work force, and are all in Missouri.
Spokeswoman Barb Shepard says as market conditions change, laid off employees may be rehired.
The company operates six mines, a lead recycling facility and smelter in Missouri.