Canada
March 23, 2026
Layoffs begin as Algoma Steel unwinds integrated operations
Written by Kristen DiLandro
The layoffs at Algoma Steel’s integrated steelmaking facility took effect today, Monday, March 23. After 124 years of use, the company has officially abandoned the blast-furnace production method. Going forward, it will use the electric-arc furnace (EAF) to produce its steel.
Algoma announced the layoffs back in December. At the time, the Sault Ste. Marie-based producer blamed the US’s 50% tariff for the closure. It said it would lay off ~1,000 employees.
A spokesperson for Algoma acknowledged the impact of the steelmaker’s transition to EAF steelmaking.
“The date has now arrived, and workforce reductions are proceeding in phases as the company transitions away from its integrated operations. A number of employees have already voluntarily departed since the announcement in December, with additional reductions occurring in the near term and over the course of 2026,” said Algoma’s spokesperson, Laura Devoni.
USW Local 2724 President Bill Slater outlined ways that its members can find assistance.
“We’re here to support the membership in any way. Whether it’s the people laid off looking for other employment or people who need the stuff, we’ve set up with our district office to help people with resumes and job fairs and all that kind of stuff, any training that’s needed,” he said. “We’re trying to help members with that, and then we’re just trying to protect the members that deserve to keep their jobs based on skills and ability and seniority.”
Devoni and Slater confirmed that in the lead-up, several Algoma employees retired, resigned, or pursued other opportunities.
