Samples and swatch maker cuts workforce

Evansville-based Leed Selling Tools Corp. has notified the state it will be laying off 81 workers at the end of July. The company, which produces material samples and swatches for other manufacturers, has agreed to sell its assets to North Carolina-based Sampling International.

In a WARN notice to the state, Leed says the layoffs will occur at its facilities in Evansville and in the Jasper County community of Ireland. SI says it will transfer the Indiana operations to other plants.

Leed says the layoffs will be permanent.