Blue Ox Suspends Some Production Functions, Explores Options To Utilize Facility, On-Site Campground And Welcome Center To Help Combat Pandemic

Blue Ox/Automatic is temporarily suspending some production functions at our facilities in Pender and Lincoln, Neb. This action is in response to the national spread of the Coronavirus, the national emergency associated with the virus, and unforeseeable change in business circumstances that have accompanied it.

These steps are designed to lower the probability of Coronavirus exposure to employees. Blue Ox/Automatic will remain open to produce and fill incoming orders, assist with customer care, sales support, distribution, and essential activity to support our dealers and customers. Production will adjust to incoming orders accordingly.

Blue Ox intends to pay associates affected through pay period ending April 3rd. Benefits and health insurance will be ongoing for associates throughout suspension period. Executive, management, and some associate compensation will be reduced.

The Blue Ox/Automatic team has been in contact with the Nebraska State Department to offer the utilization of its production and distribution facilities in the event the facility could be converted for necessary items to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Blue Ox officials are also exploring ways to assist front line health care professionals including potential utilization or conversion of on-site campground and Jay Hesse Welcome Center.

Blue Ox/Automatic will continue to monitor COVID-19 and legislation associated very closely. We are committed to executing contingency plans including the exploration of state and federal programs as they are approved. The demand for Blue Ox products had been significant previous to this outbreak. It is our belief our current customer base and family will rally around our team allowing for a strong return to normal production.

These measures ensure a safe work environment for employees and disciplined production strategies that benefit the company and its partners before resuming full operations.

Blue Ox/Automatic has been in business for 95 years and weathered every storm our country has faced. We have a tremendous Midwestern workforce and we are committed to exploring every resource available to our associates through this unprecedented time.