HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. (CLARKSVILLENOW)- Ebonite International, a bowling ball manufacturing company that has operated in Hopkinsville. Ky. for more than 50 years, was recently acquired by another company and closed its doors permanently.

Approximately, 170 workers, many long-time employees, were laid-off.

According to an article at flobowling.com, “Brunswick secured all the assets of EBI, including all of its brands, trademarks, and technologies. Effective immediately, the EBI plant in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, has been shut down and production will move to Brunswick’s plant in Reynosa, Mexico.”

The West Kentucky Workforce Board said on their Facebook page, “Regretfully, the Workforce Board is aware of the Ebonite closure that occurred today (November 15). Ebonite has had a long-standing presence and contributed to its employees and the community. Response plans are in the works at this time. Expect more detailed information to be released Monday regarding assistance for employees. Watch the WKWB Facebook page and website for upcoming informational events.”