Besse Forest Products Group closed three Wisconsin facilities, including one in Mattoon and another in Goodman, laying off 136 people.
In letters to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, Besse said it would close facilities in Goodman, Mattoon and Rice Lake. Goodman employs 48, Mattoon 42 and Rice Lake 46.
The letters said, “We are sorry we were not able to give you more notice. However, due to an unprecedented industry downturn, it has recently become clear to the company that the revenues of the company will no longer support its operations. Therefore, we are providing as much notice of the closing as is practicable in the circumstances, pursuant to federal and state WARN laws.”
The WARN law typically requires 60 days notice, but there are a handful of exceptions. The company said it had explored restructuring alternatives before deciding to close the facilities.
Besse Forest Products Group was acquired by the Hoffmann Family of Companies private equity firm based in Florida in March.
The Mattoon facility served as a sawmill, plywood mill, veneer mill and supplied pallet cut stock. The facility in Goodman served as a veneer mill, sawmill, plywood mill, export log yard and provided dry kiln and ripping capabilities, while the Rice Lake plant served as a veneer mill.
The town of Goodman is named after the Goodman Lumber company which was founded in 1909.
