Garner Industries lays off 62 people after tornado wipes out plant in Lincoln

LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - Garner Industries announced 62 employee layoffs Monday after a tornado caused catastrophic damage to the plant, rendering the facility beyond repair.

The facility on the northeast edge of Lincoln was hit by a tornado on April 26 with more than 70 workers inside, and fortunately there were no serious injuries.

“We’ve worked hard to find a path to move forward,” Scott McLain, CEO and president of Garner Industries said. “These layoffs are necessary for us to stay in business. This is an extremely difficult situation. These people are like family.”

BEFORE & AFTER: Garner Industries on the northeast edge of Lincoln was hit by a tornado on... — BEFORE & AFTER: Garner Industries on the northeast edge of Lincoln was hit by a tornado on April 26 with more than 70 workers inside, but fortunately there were no serious injuries.(Garner Industries)

According to a news release, Garner is providing compensation and health benefits to employees affected by the layoff. The company has also organized community support, medical, and mental health assistance as well as new employment recruiting opportunities.

The EF3 tornado destroyed the entire 115,000-square-foot facility, including production, engineering, warehousing, inventory and office space. All machine tool, molding and automation equipment was destroyed.

At this time, key personnel are working to relocate Garner’s BinMaster product line to an alternate location in Lincoln. BinMaster is a leading sensor and software company that provides level controls for measuring bulk solids and liquids in silos, tanks and bins. Approximately 70 employees will continue to be employed by the BinMaster operation.