POINT WASHINGTON, Wis. — OmniQuip, a leading manufacturer of light construction equipment, plans to discontinue production of aerial work platform products because of continued industry softness. The move, which will result in the closure of its Elwood, Kan., facility that produced the Snorkel line of aerial work platforms, will address OmniQuip's over-capacity issues and will enhance the company's competitive position.

The Elwood closure, which is expected to be complete by the end of this month, will affect about 200 employees.

“While we believe this decision better positions OmniQuip for long-term growth, it was extremely difficult,” said Stephen Light, OmniQuip president and CEO.

OmniQuip officials said the company will assist all affected Elwood employees as they transition to new career opportunities.

OmniQuip is a division of Textron Inc.