One of the common themes over the past year on ModCoach’s Modular Home Builder blog – a must read for anyone in the modular industry – has been the temporary or permanent closing of various modular plants throughout the nation. It’s an unfortunate side effect of the housing recession, but one that should reverse itself in time.

Excel Homes is well aware of the dilemma. In 2008, we were forced to temporarily shutter our production facility in Avis, PA. Thanks to an increase in demand for our homes, we were able to reopen the Avis plant in 2010 and re-hire about 100 workers. The first home the plant completed was a massive residential project for the ABC television show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

We’re lucky to have the opportunity to reopen the Avis plant, but not all modular home builders are so fortunate. Believe us when we say we wish that were not the case. It’s never good to see a modular manufacturer close its doors, even if it’s one of our competitors. We thrive on competition – most companies do – and we know that if a fellow modular builder is forced to shut its doors, it’s probably because of a larger industrywide issue that we’re feeling the effects of as well. In other words, plant closings are good for no one.

Plant reopenings, on the other hand, are great. Great for the company, great for its employees, great for the local economy and great for the modular home industry. As we bring 2010 to an end and look forward to 2011, let’s all hope the next year opens more doors for everyone.