The ripple effects of rising tariffs are hitting close to home. L.E. Jones Company in Menominee has announced plans to reduce its production workforce by about 20 to 25 percent; a move the company says is necessary to align with declining customer orders and global economic pressures. Over the past six months, manufacturers across the U.S. have faced mounting challenges as escalating tariffs disrupted supply chains and slowed sales in industries like trucking, construction, and engine manufacturing. L.E. Jones exports more than half of its products overseas, and company officials say tariffs placed on long-time allies such as Canada, Mexico, and several European nations have made it harder to stay competitive. In a statement, the company said it had hoped the tariff situation would be temporary; with the goal of achieving reciprocal rates near zero, but instead, average tariffs have climbed nearly tenfold since the start of the year. The company says the slowdown in orders and cautious outlook from customers suggest a possible downturn ahead. The production cuts, while difficult, are part of what leaders call a strategic move to stabilize operations and prepare for future growth. Despite the reductions, L.E. Jones says it remains committed to research and development of new materials and advanced manufacturing processes to support its global customers. The company’s announcement was made official in a release early yesterday morning.