Moog Music shares statement following layoffs and teases new products: “In Asheville, we will continue to design, innovate, and manufacture”
“We made the difficult decision to adjust the size of our assembly team to better match our new approach”
Image: MusicTech
[UPDATE 09/28/23, 21:53 EDT: Moog Music posts an updated statement to their Instagram page]
American synth designer Moog Music has assured fans and customers in a statement that its “headquarters will remain in Asheville,” despite some manufacturing tasks reportedly being undertaken in Taiwan. The company adds that its “newest innovative products” will be shared in early 2024.
READ MORE: How Moog’s Minimoog Model D became a massive miniature icon
Earlier this week, huge news erupted from the Moog Music camp in Asheville, North Carolina: the revered synthesizer company allegedly laid off over 30 Asheville team members. In addition, the InMusic-owned company is said to be using a manufacturing plant in Taiwan to produce its synthesizers. Today (27 Sept), the brand says its HQ will remain in Asheville – with manufacturing support coming from overseas.
“We want to thank everyone who has reached out over the last several days to check in on us,” the statement reads. “As you probably know, it’s been a very hectic time at Moog. We’re making certain changes to ensure our long-term financial health and continued innovation and would like to share important and accurate information with you.
“First, our headquarters will remain in Asheville where we will continue to design, innovate, and manufacture instruments of the highest standard, such as [the] Moog One, Minimoog Model D, legacy modular [gear], and our newest innovative products, the first of which you will see early next year.
“We are also asking some of our overseas partners who we’ve worked with for years to help finish assembly on some products. This hybrid approach will allow us to get on strong financial footing and continue designing, building, and delivering quality musical instruments for years to come.
“Last week, we made the difficult decision to adjust the size of our assembly team to better match our new approach. While this transition was challenging for everyone, substantial support, benefits, and healthcare was provided to those affected, easing their journey to new opportunities.
“We are looking forward to getting past this painful phase with renewed energy and enthusiasm. We believe the brightest days for Moog Music lie ahead and are excited about our vision for the future.
“Thank you for your continued trust and belief in Moog Music.”
Later in the evening, Moog added to its original statement, seemingly elaborating on its layoffs, the welfare of ex-employees, and its manufacturing relationships. The company said that it “parted ways with a number of our skilled production team members.
“For those of us still with Moog, these employees represent friends, siblings, spouses. This hasn’t been easy for anyone. Please know that these folks were provided continued compensation and benefits as they plan their next career steps.”
On the point of purported Taiwanese manufacturing plants, Moog says that it will “also manufacture a selection of our instruments with trusted partners who are dedicated to maintaining the quality and sound of Moog products.”
“Some of these partners have already been helping us for years to create instruments you know and love.”
The statement goes on to say that the new developments are “necessary for the future of Moog, as we continue to face the ongoing challenges of manufacturing electronic instruments in America.”
This is a developing story.
