Benson President Donnie Holland, who will remain onboard during the transition to the new ownership, said that Transcraft management has been interviewing existing Benson personnel for rehiring. He added that workers retained would resume their duties after a new job offer.
According to Holland, Transcraft’s purchase of the facility included intellectual property rights to Benson’s designs for flatbed trailers, truck bodies and dump trailers built at the Cadiz Facility. “There is always room on the line for more input to be given, and Transcraft has the engineering depth to help our lines. Fundamentally, everything should stay about like it is.”
Holland said that he anticipated production to resume by mid-September, with the pace to increase as orders for Transcraft products are placed and received.
Benson employee Bobby Thomas said, “I’m super excited about the sale. It’s a wonderful company, with great people. With Wabash, we will have the resources and buying power to grow by leaps and bounds. I’m happy, along with everyone else that the plant is staying in Cadiz. It’s a steady company with potential for growth.”
Colleague Brent Steward echoed the sentiment of excitement felt around the plant. “From what I hear and after checking them out online, they are looking forward to working with us and the community. I would have hated to have seen the plant close. I plan to stay and see what kind of people they are. So far, the ones I’ve talked to care about their people and their community. If that’s so, then I’m in for the long haul.”
Local elected officials echoed the elation of Benson workers and anticipated continued growth from Transcraft.
For more on Benson/Transcraft, and to keep up with all local industries, read The Cadiz Record.
