Indoor air quality equipment maker AAF International will close its Lebanon, Ind., manufacturing plant by the end of May.

The move will allow the company to more efficiently serve its North American customers, who will be able to buy products from other AAF facilities, officials said.

AAF will provide assistance to laid-off workers, it said.

"We sincerely appreciate the hard work and support from all of our employees during this transition,” said Matt Filbern, the company’s vice president of operations for the Americas. “AAF remains committed to our customers and intends to provide a seamless transition of supply in the coming weeks.”

The company announced that it plans to build a research and development facility near its Louisville, Ky., headquarters, and expand its Columbia, Mo., manufacturing plant.

"Having R&D and manufacturing capabilities near our headquarters will allow us to quickly develop innovative products for our customer base," said AAF’s global chief operating officer, Peter M. Kurto. "These expansion plans are designed with the customer in mind, as we strive to provide enhanced service and technology to our customers."