Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania – Quality issues and long lead times from overseas sewing factories are adding up to big losses and some CEOs are taking action. This is why a progressive, family-owned business in Pennsylvania has witnessed skyrocketing demand for contract sewing services.
Rifkin Contract Sewing constantly receives calls from global businesses that are in desperate need of help. CEOs are far too familiar with the gut wrenching feeling that comes after receiving a textile shipment from an overseas manufacturer with flaws and irregularities. “We have become a lifesaver for repairing defective and damaged goods. Demand reached such a level that we nicknamed one of our services SOS Sewing & Repair,” says Rifkin president, Paul Lantz. On a recent order for sheets and pillowcases that was scheduled for production in China, there was a catastrophic breakdown in communication and performance. Three weeks after receiving raw materials, Rifkin completed the order and prevented a major supply chain interruption. A growing number of business owners recognize the devastating impact of a missed deadline or disappointed customer, so they turn to Rifkin to fix the problem.
Another source of growth for Rifkin Contract Sewing comes from businesses that want to sell American-made products. “We work with any size company and are proud to be one of the only no-minimum sewing factories in the world. Many small orders have turned into big customers,” says Jamie Durkin, Business Development Manager.
Rifkin invested millions of dollars in high-tech sewing equipment and employs generations of skilled workers to deliver superior quality, competitively priced products. A walk through the company’s 69,000 square foot factory is proof that textile manufacturing can flourish in the United States. You can watch sewers make everything from reusable sandwich bags to commercial seat covers for boats.
Since its founding in 1892, Rifkin has become synonymous with innovation. In addition to patenting and manufacturing one of the first commercial “over-alls” the company also invented the iconic locking night deposit bag that is currently used by over 30,000 customers. More recently, the business has expanded into manufacturing uniforms for police and firefighters through the acquisition of Hope Uniform and Security Products.
Consistent quality is the thread that could unravel a segment of China’s sewing industry and bring prosperity to the hard working craftsmen at Rifkin Contract Sewing.
