Bob Evans closing now official

The closing of the Bob Evans Farms plant in Galva is official. Corporate officials made a visit to the plant this morning to officially give the news to workers.

News of the closing surfaced late last week, with employees affirming the reports, but company officials declined to comment until after meeting with employees - 66 worked at the plant - this morning. The last production day was Friday.

“This was a very difficult decision,” said president of Bob Evans Food Products Mike Townsley. “We have great employees at our Galva facility, and we have a long history there. Our business model needs to adapt to these tough market conditions. We need to manage our assets to stay competitive long term.”

Galva Mayor Tom Hartman said city officials tried to keep the company here, but said Bob Evans didn't appear interested.

"We did everything we could," Hartman said Aug. 9.

For more coverage on the closing, see the Aug. 13 Galva News.