SAVANNAH, Ga — Great Dane Limited Partnership has acquired a new production facility in Scott County, Tenn. The anticipated start-up date of the new facility is the first half of 2005.

"This acquisition further strengthens our leadership position in the truck trailer industry and provides us with better capabilities to satisfy our customers’ needs and requirements," said Phill Pines, chief operating officer, Great Dane Limited Partnership. "It also demonstrates our commitment to provide our employees with the best resources possible to assure our continued competitiveness in today’s market."

Sam Gupta, who was recently promoted to senior vice president of manufacturing for Great Dane, is leading the team of manufacturing, engineering and support personnel to prepare the plant for the production of Great Dane trailers. Gupta has more than 26 years of truck trailer manufacturing experience, including 14 years as Great Dane’s vice president of manufacturing for the Van Division.

"He brings a wealth of experience to his new position," Pines said. "He is well qualified for this challenging and exciting opportunity."

The Scott County facility, located in the northeastern part of Tennessee, was previously owned by Wabash National Corporation.

For more information, visit www.greatdanetrailers.com