The US major jeans company, Levi Strauss will close down its Manila plant at the end of July, 2008 and the employment of 257 workers will be terminated. The plant has been producing jeans for the Philippines and Asian markets since 1972. With this Manila plant closure, the company will source products from contractors in Asia for local sales and continue distribution of "Levi's" and "Dockers" brands through its existing franchise network.