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Bismarck, N.D. (AP) A union official says Bobcat Co. is asking more of its workers to take early retirement.

Jeremy Bauer is the president of the Bismarck United Steelworkers Union Local 566 and a worker at the Bismarck Bobcat plant. He said the company initially wanted 100 employees to take the offer and is now asking for about 50 more.

Spokeswoman Nikki Bruce will not say how many employees of West Fargo-based Bobcat are being offered the retirement package. The company says it's being extended to employees in Bismarck and Gwinner.

Bruce said Bobcat is struggling with low market demand and the overall economic slowdown.

Bobcat, which makes skid steer loaders and other light construction equipment, earlier announced a six-week shutdown at its Bismarck and Gwinner plants beginning Dec. 15.

Doosan Infracore International, Bobcat's parent company, has said it offered buyouts to all salaried employees across its U.S.

offices.

Information from: Bismarck Tribune, http://www.bismarcktribune.com (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-17-08 1944CST | save this article / add to your favorites list