The federal government awarded two contracts to Parkdale Mills and Ferrara Manufacturing to make more than 17 million reusable cotton masks in the USA, Sourcing Journal reported on March 29, 2021.
The masks will go to community health centers, food pantries and soup kitchens. The government could buy up to 22.2 million masks under the two contracts.
Key details
- The masks will be Berry Amendment compliant.
- Parkdale, a North Carolina company described as the largest cotton yarn spinner in the USA, will use yarn from its plants in North Carolina, Virginia and Georgia.
- Ferrara will cut and sew in New York City’s garment district.
- The companies say the awards will employ nearly 5,000 workers across the supply chain.
- Suppliers include Clover Knits, Fitessa, American & Efird, Apex Elastic, Texlon Plastics, South Fork Industries, America Knits, Cotswold Industries, USC Bag, Unionwear, Lynda Studios and Domoi Collection.
- The National Council of Textile Organizations said a third contract was expected to go to a small business.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to onshore these critical supply chains long-term.”
Kim Glas, president and CEO, NCTO
FAQ
Who won the contracts?
Parkdale Mills and Ferrara Manufacturing.
How many masks?
More than 17 million, with a ceiling of 22.2 million.
Who gets the masks?
Community health centers, food pantries and soup kitchens.
Source & credit
Source: Sourcing Journal, March 29, 2021: “Government Contracts Will Create 17M USA-Made Masks”.