Great Dane to close Savannah GA plant

Great Dane Trailers plans to close its original manufacturing facility in Savannah GA effective January 9, 2009. The extended economic downturn coupled with the need for more efficient production are the key factors behind the decision to close the refrigerated trailer plant.

Built in 1919 for the expanding Savannah Blowpipe Company, this plant would soon become the starting ground for the first Great Dane trailers. The facility produced the first-ever factory-finished refrigerated trailer.

Plans for replacing this capacity are underway. "This move is necessary to meet customer expectations, while being price-competitive," said Phillip Pines, chief operating officer of Great Dane Limited Partnership. "Advancements in technology, both in the design and production of trailers, have placed increased demands on manufacturing."

Approximately 270 plant hourly and office employees will be affected by this closing. The corporate office will not be affected. Until a new plant is established, the Savannah plant’s production will be transferred to Great Dane’s two other refrigerated plants in Wayne NE and Brazil IN.