HNI Corporation announced it will close its historic Gunlocke manufacturing plant in Wayland in 2027.
The shuttering will result in employment terminations for approximately 135 workers, HNI said in a Jan. 8 statement.
HNI said it intends to consolidate production into its other North American facilities over the course of 2026. All products currently produced at the Wayland facility will shift to existing facilities across the HNI manufacturing network.
HNI estimates the consolidation will eventually save the company approximately $7.5 to $8 million annually.
The Gunlocke brand, its products, and its standards of quality, craftsmanship, and service will continue to be an important part of the company’s portfolio, according to a news release announcing the Wayland plant’s closure.
“Closing the facility is a difficult decision given the hard work and expertise of the Wayland team,” HNI Chief Operating Officer Brandon Bullock said in the release. “We are grateful for our Wayland members’ dedication and craftsmanship, and we are committed to providing support and resources throughout the transition.
“This is a strategic change that aligns with our continued network optimization journey. We are announcing the consolidation a year in advance as part of our commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for our members and our customers.”
Today, Gunlocke’s product lines include workspaces, tables, seating, storage and accessories.
Iowa-based HNI acquired Gunlocke in 1989. Operations were downsized in 2019, with HNI cutting 30 positions and laying off another 70 workers at the Wayland facility.
Gunlocke has been a fixture in Wayland since 1902 when the W. H. Gunlocke Chair Company was founded. It grew into a highly respected manufacturer with products featured prominently in JFK’s Oval Office.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates. Email Neal Simon at nsimon@gannett.com. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: HNI will close Wayland Gunlocke plant in 2027, impacting over 130 jobs
Reporting by Neal Simon, Hornell Evening Tribune / The Evening Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
