Manchester Tank shutting down Bedford operations

“In response to the closing of Manchester Tank’s Bedford facility, the Lawrence County Economic Growth Council would like to extend our thoughts to the employees affected as well as their families. While we are still working to understand the full impact of this decision, our organization is committed to partnering with local government, workforce agencies, industry, and community organizations as we actively pursue job-creation opportunities and support our partners to assist those impacted. ”

TimesMail:

BEDFORD, IN — Manchester Tank is shutting down operations in Bedford on June 30.

UAW members at the company were informed by Manchester Tank President Nancy Chamblee at the end of their shift Monday, that, as of now, the plant will be closing on that date, according to Jared Brewer, president of UAW 2158.

McWane, Inc. released the following statement late Monday to the Times-Mail: “Manchester Tank has made the difficult decision to close its Bedford facility. After exploring all options to remain open, it became clear it is not economically feasible. Manchester Tank is providing severance packages to our team members based on seniority and assistance in transitioning to new careers. We thank the Bedford community for its support.”

 
The company is thought to employ between 130 to 150, but that number could not be confirmed by deadline.
According to its website, Manchester Tank is one of several companies in the U.S. and world owned by McWane, Inc., a Birmingham, Alabama-based business.
Manchester Tank “is a global leader in the design and manufacture of steel and aluminum pressure vessels. We produce a broad range of products for the storage and transport of propane, chemicals, compressed air and other industrial applications,” the website states.

Shance Sizemore, CEO of the Lawrence County Economic Growth Council, said he spoke Monday with representatives of WorkOne, who confirmed the plant was closing.
“It’s all hands on deck making sure our family and friends are going to be OK,” Sizemore said. “It’s not a situation you want people to be in.”

Once the company finalizes its plans, WorkOne will coordinate with the community to create a response team and then the state to organize job assistance and retraining.
Among other things, the LCEGC would be glad to work with Manchester Tank to help their employees take the next step in their careers, Sizemore said.

 
Meanwhile, the LCEGC will also explore any opportunities for continued growth in the Bedford area that might be created by Manchester Tank’s exit.
“The last thing we want is to have that facility sit empty after they leave,” Sizemore said.

Whether a local company — or one from out of the area — might be able to expand into the space, the goal would be to get the highest and best use for it, he said.
“We would work to make that arrangement,” Sizemore said.

“There a lot of unknowns right now ... but the most important thing is to make sure their employees transition and make the best change possible,” Sizemore said.

As recently as Dec. 11, 2019, Manchester Tank was looking to hire welders for its Bedford facility, according to the company’s Facebook page.