MERCER, Pa. - The company that owns Mercer Forge in Mercer is preparing to finalize its sale of the plant sometime next week.

Workers at the plant could lose their jobs as a result.

A spokesperson for Neenah Foundry says its selling the facility on Brown Street to Milwaukee Forge out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

He says it's believed that only a small number of workers will be offered to transfer to Milwaukee, where the new owners are planning to consolidate its operations.

The plant employs up to 130 workers, with 100 of them in the United Steel Workers union. Workers earn an average salary of $50,000 to $60,000.

Mercer County Commissioner Matt McConnell says the sale is "devastating" for the Mercer community.

The current owners say the coronavirus pandemic is not to blame for the decision, and that discussions about selling the plant began well before the onset of the pandemic in March.

Mercer Forge makes parts for the automotive, military and large truck industries. The plant is still operating and workers will likely be reporting for shifts for possibly another week.

Business reps from Milwaukee Forge were on site at the property Tuesday, but would not provide any comment about the potential job losses and pending sale.

The spokesperson says it's certainly possible the new owners will close the plant entirely.