Great Dane to close Savannah GA plant

Nov. 12, 2008
Great Dane Trailers plans to close its original manufacturing facility in Savannah GA effective January 9, 2009.

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.

Sponsored Recommendations

Heavy-Duty Maintenance Checklist

A maintenance checklist can help ensure you hit everything necessary during an inspection. Check out our free downloadable checklist to help streamline your repairs.

Five Ways a Little Data Can Save Your Company Millions

While most trucking and logistics companies rely on cellular to keep their work fleet connected, satellite has the ability to connect anywhere and through small data transmission...

Fleet Case Study: 15% YOY Growth for ITDS

Learn how this small trucking company scaled significantly and maintained outstanding customer service without adding additional people. Sylectus TMS can automate operations and...

Unlocking Fleet Safety & Efficiency: The Managed Service Advantage

Want to boost your fleet's safety and efficiency? Tune in now to discover the power of Managed Services in optimizing your safety program, streamlining operations, and making ...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!