Here are the Columbus area companies supplying front line workers with protective equipment

When the news of the coronavirus pandemic began to spread earlier this spring, it created a shortage of personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies that are necessary for health care providers and front line workers to safety and effectively do their jobs.

In response, companies across the U.S. began to shift their business models to help bridge the shortfall. The effort was seen even in Columbus as businesses like Chattabrewchee Southern Brewhouse and Califormulations teamed up to bottle hand sanitizer alongside the brewery’s staple beverages.

Another Columbus business, Wade Cleaners, shifted from laundry and alterations to create masks and barrier gowns for hospital personnel.

To help healthcare providers and front line workers better locate companies that are producing personal protective equipment and sanitizing products in the state, the Georgia Department of Economic Development has created the COVID-19 Suppliers: List and Interactive Map.

The map has supply-specific search and features over 220 Georgia companies providing supplies like face masks, hand sanitizer and surgical gowns.

Governor Brian Kemp announced the map in a press release Monday and encourages companies that are distributing critical health care supplies to complete a form to be included on the list.

“When we asked Georgia businesses to aid with needed supplies in our fight against COVID-19, they answered that call,” Kemp said. “I thank all of the hardworking Georgians and businesses who have made these supplies available. We are all in this together, and this new resource will help Georgia companies source the supplies necessary for keeping their employees and customers safe, while remaining open for business.”

Businesses on the list in the Columbus area include:

HPPE in Columbus

High Performance Product Engineering, located on Dixie Street in Columbus, manufactures biopolymer based products and has been producing hand sanitizer and sanitizing spray during the crisis, according to the COVID-19 suppliers list.

Omaha Brewing Company in Omaha

The beer brewing business in Omaha, Georgia, has been supplying hand sanitizer during the pandemic. Gallons of sanitizer are being sold for $40 and 12 ounce bottles go for $10. Bulk orders are also available, and the company donates a case of sanitizer every week, according to their website, omahabrewingcompany.com.

Swamp Fox Distilling Co.

This small batch distillery in Buena Vista, Georgia, is producing hand sanitizer. Businesses or individuals who are interested in purchasing sanitizer are asked to call the distillery at 229-314-6965.

TSG Resolute

TSG Resolute of Americus, Georgia, is typically a manufacturer of products such as gaskets, die cut plastics, acoustical insulation and more, according to its website, tsgresolute.com. Due to the pandemic, the company has shifted to also supply face shields for healthcare providers. They are also manufacturing adhesive half shields for the face and tabletop sneeze guards. For more information and orders, customers are asked to call 229-942-1280 or email mrhoads@tsgresolute.com

Tepuy Apparel Designs

This white label activewear manufacturing company in Americus, Georgia, is providing N-95 masks, hair covers, shoe covers and surgical gowns, according to the department of economic development’s list. The company is also supplying cotton face masks that can hold disposable filters. Pricing starts at $6 for up to 10 masks.