One of northwest Georgia's largest carpet companies has announced that it will close a manufacturing facility in Dalton, known for decades as the nation's carpet capital.

The Daily Citizen reports that the closing of Shaw's plant on Riverbend Drive will result in 270 layoffs.

The Chattanooga Times Free Press reports that the plant will close within the next 60 days.

The latest announcement comes after Shaw announced layoffs in Eton and Ringgold in August, on top of the closure of a Chatsworth plant in April.

Shaw spokesman Al Scruggs tells the Times Free Press that the closure is part of a "right-sizing" strategy due to the economy. He said the move would ultimately help Shaw save money as it shifts workers and equipment to other pants.

Tags: economy, Dalton, carpet industry, Shaw Industries, northwest Georgia