Fire Strikes Superior Linen and Apparel (Cincinnati)
Photo courtesy of WKRC Cincinnati
The Superior Linen and Apparel building, Walnut Hills, OH, was heavily damaged by a four-alarm fire on May 21. A total of 94 firefighters responded just after 10 p.m., according to news reports and the Cincinnati Fire Department.
A roof collapse prevented firefighters from entering the building. They remained outside and battled the flames for more than eight hours, well into Tuesday afternoon.
In an e-mail to TRSA, G. Jerry Ruwe, president/CEO of Superior said the plant was a complete loss. “We were given access on Wednesday to remove new goods from our warehouse,” he said. “We have been able to already set up off-premise office operation and rent storage space. Vendors have reached out and are cooperating, offering assistance. It’s an evolving situation as we attempt to continue service to customers who have been loyal, patient and very understanding.”
Firefighters are considering the possibility that as many as three lightning strikes, which hit the same area of the plant in a short period of time, may have sparked the fire, Ruwe said.
Founded in 1927, Superior Linen and Apparel has served the Cincinnati area as a family-owned business for five generations.
No one was inside the building at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported. Damages are estimated at $400,000. Click here for details.