1997
Restructuring
The North American operation of Libbey-Owens-Ford was split into Automotive and Building Products; the European automotive business became two distinct operations for original equipment and glass replacement and the Technical Function became a single worldwide organization.
The role of the headquarters was redefined and the Technology Function refocused on fewer programs, manufacturing improvement, and the management of technical programs.
The UK’s building products downstream operation was reorganized into two divisions, processing and merchanting, and the number of branches reduced to 23 from more than 50.