Girard Tarps began operations in 1982. The business, originally based in John and Clarice Miller's garage, initially was designed to do tarp repairs for the trucking industry and some upholstery work as a fill in. Most of the repair work at that time was contracted through Hofer Trucking, based in Pittsburg Kansas. In 1983, a shop was constructed on the lot behind the Miller residence. Once construction was completed, John and Clarice added new tarp construction for the trucking industry and began phasing out the upholstery portion of the business. At that time, installation of new tarps and repairs of existing tarps on trailers was performed on the open lot. In 1986, the 'north' shop was constructed which allowed for repairs on trailers and new tarp installation to be completed inside a building, reducing the necessity to rely on the weather for scheduling purposes. Girard Tarps incorporated in 1992. In 1995, the 'office' was added to the south shop. In 2001, John and Clarice's daughter, Lisa and her husband Jerry, purchased the shop from her parents to continue the family business.
Today, Girard Tarps continues to tarp trailers and trucks for the end dump and agricultural industries. Although the trucking and agricultural industry are our primary business, expansion of services throughout the years has 'covered' such items as banners, tarps for the amusement ride industry, boat and pool covers, cattle and tractor shades, covered wagon, air conditioner and generator covers, and hundreds of custom covers for that special project. Whether it be end dumps, grain trailers or trucks, or that special project - QUALITY ALWAYS COMES FIRST AT GIRARD TARPS.
Over the years, Girard Tarps has garnered various awards/recognitions including; (1995) Shur-Co Dealer of the Year, (1999) Girard Chamber Business of the Year, (2005) Governor's Merit Award in Manufacturing, among others. Girard Tarps continues its philanthropic endeavors by contributing to various organizations throughout the area.
Girard Tarps is the premier fabricator of custom tarps in southeast Kansas. Whether it is a semi trailer, boat, camper canopy, grain truck, or a backyard patio shade, Girard Tarps can help! If you need a new or replacement vinyl cover, Girard Tarps Inc. can create a custom design based on your specifications, and build it in our Girard Kansas shop. Our staff has over 70 years combined experience in custom tarpaulin design and fabrication. Call or stop by today. We’ve got you covered! Quality… Always!
Helen Pouche has been a part of the Girard Tarps Family since April 30, 1984. Her expertise is what we call "phenomenal"! When it comes to the fabric portion of the tarp, any tarp, Helen is our go-to person. She has the ability to take some of the most extreme custom requests, design the tarp and construct it where it fits like a glove when she is finished. Her ability to create a tarp that fits and looks great is more than just astounding.
Doug Farmer has been with the GT Family since March 21, 2011. Although only in the 'family' a short time by comparison standards, Doug was born and raised on a local farm and acclimated to the tarp industry extremely fast.
Jerry and Lisa Franklin have been with the company full time since 2000 and 1999 respectively, taking the reins from her parents in 2001. Jerry works in the tarp construction and manufacturing/installation areas and Lisa works in the office generally.