Merrow Manufacturing

02/11/2025

To the community of people (and companies) advocating for Made in USA production - especially our advocates in , and :

We all know that supporting Made in USA manufacturing is a brand-to-consumer effort—because let’s be honest, most big retailers aren’t backing regional manufacturing the way they should. If we want our community to keep supporting us when retailers won’t, we believe it’s time to pay it forward and build a better model for everyone.

Starting today, Whalerknits is launching an affiliate program that offers 15% commissions to help grow the movement. Anyone can register... ANYONE! SIGN UP AND SHARE A LINK... both businesses and individuals - you don't have to be an 'influencer'... but IF YOU ARE and you have a larger following or do this professionally, we also have a 20% commission program with free samples—just reach out to request access.

👉 Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/exnxqQgM

While this isn't breaking new ground, it is a pivot we're making fully: this year, all of our USA brands will be offering affiliate programs - open to anyone.
For those who believe in and promote American-made goods.

We see this as an essential step in improving the business model for everyone involved.

First up: Whalerknits, our 100-year-old USA-made knitwear brand, where we design, knit, and sew sweaters right here in Massachusetts—continuing a long tradition of American craftsmanship.

If you’re someone who actively promotes quality American-made goods, this is a great way to expand the conversation, strengthen the movement, and get rewarded in the process.

Curious to hear from you all—what have been the most effective ways you’ve found to promote Made in USA brands? Let’s talk! 🚀💪

07/10/2024

Leveraging AI to Enhance Soft Goods Manufacturing in the Western Hemisphere

As the CEO of Merrow Manufacturing, I’ve always been driven by innovation and the pursuit of excellence. It is increasingly clear that the future of soft goods manufacturing in the Western Hemisphere hinges on our ability to integrate advanced technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), into our operations. AI presents a transformative opportunity to streamline processes, optimize supply chains, and respond swiftly to market demands, thereby significantly enhancing our competitiveness. At Merrow, this is a primary focus for our business planning and investment strategy.

The demand for soft goods is vast and varied, spanning multiple sectors including apparel, automotive interiors, defense gear, bedding, and furniture. In the apparel sector alone, the market is projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2025, with substantial demand from North and Latin America. Similarly, the automotive interiors market, expected to hit $200 billion by 2026, and the defense sector, with a U.S. budget exceeding $700 billion annually, underscore the immense potential. The bedding and furniture market, projected to grow to $838 billion by 2027, further highlights the extensive consumption of soft goods.

These figures justify significant investment in our manufacturing capabilities, particularly when bolstered by the precision and efficiency offered by AI.

Investing in AI tools is not just about keeping up with technological advancements; it’s about revolutionizing our approach to manufacturing. Supply chain optimization through AI can identify bottlenecks and predict disruptions, allowing us to take proactive measures. This leads to a more resilient and responsive supply chain, critical in today’s volatile market conditions.

Quality control is another area where AI can make a significant impact. Machine learning algorithms and image recognition can identify defects in real-time during production, ensuring that only the highest quality products reach our customers. This not only reduces returns but also enhances customer satisfaction, which is paramount for brand loyalty. Furthermore, integrating AI with robotics can automate repetitive and labor-intensive tasks, increasing production efficiency and reducing labor costs. Advanced robotics can handle complex tasks with precision and consistency, further enhancing our competitive edge.

Ultimately, as we embrace these technologies, we position the Western Hemisphere as a leader in soft goods manufacturing, ensuring sustained growth and competitiveness in a global market.

At Merrow Manufacturing, we are committed to leveraging these advanced tools to enhance our operations, meet market demands, and drive our industry forward. The integration of AI is not just an upgrade; it’s a revolution that will shape the future of manufacturing.

06/27/2024

ActiveSeam is an innovative sewing technology developed by Merrow that offers several key advantages, making it an excellent choice for various applications. Here are some reasons why ActiveSeam is considered awesome:

Comfort and Flexibility: ActiveSeam provides a flat, smooth seam that is less bulky than traditional seams. This results in increased comfort for the wearer, especially in activewear and performance clothing.

Durability: The stitching method used in ActiveSeam creates a strong, durable seam that can withstand stretching and stress, making it ideal for garments subjected to high levels of activity.

Aesthetic Appeal: ActiveSeam offers a clean, professional look with multiple stitch and thread color options. This allows for creative and visually appealing designs on garments.

Enhanced Performance: The seams created with ActiveSeam are designed to stretch and move with the fabric, providing greater range of motion and flexibility. This is particularly beneficial for athletic wear, where freedom of movement is crucial.

Versatility: ActiveSeam can be used on a wide variety of fabrics and garments, from sportswear and athleisure to everyday clothing and technical gear. Its adaptability makes it a versatile solution for many applications.

Reduced Chafing: The smooth, low-profile seams minimize friction against the skin, reducing the risk of chafing and irritation. This is particularly important for performance and athletic wear.

Sustainability: ActiveSeam can be integrated into sustainable manufacturing practices, helping to reduce waste and improve the overall environmental footprint of the production process.

Customization: With ActiveSeam, manufacturers have the ability to customize the look and feel of their products, offering unique and differentiated items that stand out in the market.

By combining functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal, ActiveSeam represents a significant advancement in sewing technology, catering to the needs of both manufacturers and end-users.

05/14/2024

💖 A wonderful picture taken at Merrow this morning, featuring Connie & Ella 💖

05/02/2024

🌟 The Merrow Group Companies: 2024 🌟

🏭 Current Operations & Mission: Today, USA based Merrow stands at the forefront of the textile industry, not only as a leader in manufacturing sewing machines but also in the design and development of technical soft goods, medical products, and the distribution of more than 100,000 unique products to 93 countries through 1600 resellers & D2C programs.

Merrow's Key Business Units:

1. Merrow Sewing Machine Company: Builds and exports state-of-the-art sewing machines and automated equipment to 93 countries. www.merrow.com & www.merrowedge.com

2. Merrow Manufacturing: Specializes in scaled manufacturing of USA made Berry-compliant technical softgoods, supporting both national and international markets. www.merrowmfg.com

3. Merrow Superior: Acts as the largest wholesaler of parts for the sewing industry across North and South America, ensuring production efficiency in an estimated 70,000 factories. www.supsew.com

4. Merrow Medical: Manufactures sustainable medical products for North American & European healthcare markets. www.merrowmedical.com

5. Merrow DTC Brands: Manages over 25 unique consumer brands, tapping into the direct-to-consumer market with products ranging from fashion knitwear to hard goods. Eg: www.merrowknits.com www.hydestore.com www.lancerulers.com

Our mission remains steadfast: to lead the global textile industry through innovation, sustainability, and comprehensive service solutions. Headquartered in Fall River, MA with offices in Miami and Los Angeles.

🧵 A Rich History of Innovation: The journey of Merrow began in 1838 with Joseph Makens Merrow at a small gunpowder mill in Connecticut. The company has evolved each decade to meet a changing market over 187 years.

📈 As the decades passed, the Merrow family expanded their operations, adapting early on to the burgeoning demands of the textile market. Our commitment to innovation was further solidified with the creation of the first Merrow Machines to enhance the finishing of men's socks, a move that replaced tedious handwork with efficient mechanization. Today Merrow is a thought leader, an innovative commercial partner, and a global organization powering 1600 resellers with products and services in 93 countries.

🌐 Global Influence: Our legacy of quality and innovation continues to grow under the leadership of the eighth generation of the Merrow family, pushing boundaries and setting new standards in textile manufacturing.

🔗 Join Us on Our Journey: Follow Merrow Group Companies to stay updated on our latest innovations and contributions to the global textile industry.

03/25/2024

MERROW is proud to partner with Origin - we build the best sewing machines in the world, to make the toughest Made-In-USA ORIGIN Products. It is an honor and a responsiblity.

If you need the best overlock sewing machine built today - take a look around merrow.com. If you believe in the values that ORIGIN and MERROW imbue our products with: buy them. Don't just talk about it - don't overthink it - choose to purchase products that are built to last and make an impact.

My favorite Origin Jacket: https://originusa.com/products/field-explorerbodyloc-stow-jacket-origin-raptor-highland-camo?variant=46404266983702

A MERROW Machine will last 100 years in production. ORIGIN products will remain in-service until you ask them to quit. Both products will be repaired and supported by people in your backyard.

BOTH PRODUCTS create jobs in our communities. BOTH PRODUCTS are built by companies who invest in the American Economy and bet on our extraodinary potential.

----------------------
FROM ORIGIN:

MADE IN AMERICA

The bar for claiming to be is set low. Under the , cheap materials and components can be sourced from other countries. But so long as the end product is assembled here, it’s technically Made in the USA.

To us, that’s a cheat. It’s a lie. It’s flat out - : an illusion of quality to drape a brand in patriotism it hasn’t truly earned - all to drive sales. It’s why we’ve taken a Better-than-Berry stance.

We exhaust all avenues to ensure our materials, fibers, and components are sourced in , exceeding Berry Amendment Standards. If a component is made on American soil, WE USE IT. If it can’t be sourced domestically, we invest in the equipment and skills to make it ourselves. And in the rare instance when a material is temporarily impossible to source or produce in our country, we make it known: to our industry as a call to arms that a gap in the supply chain needs to be filled; to our customers as a duty of transparency so they know their trust in us is well placed.

From the farms where we source materials to our sustainability practices in manufacturing, we are committed to doing all the right things for all the right reasons - and all 100% Made in America.

03/22/2024

Merrow Customers & Friends - 2024 is off to a great start. Here are some brief updates:

Tradeshows: We’re exhibiting at a dozen tradeshows this year, email our team for free passes to any show we’re attending.

Merrow Price Update: Please note a 12.5% price increase effective April 15, 2024 for all Merrow brand products. We’ve held our prices constant for 5 years and this adjustment is vital for us to continue delivering high-quality products and services.

Operations Update: Merrow Superior carries 71,416 IN-STOCK products. We’re shipping a 98% fill rate within 3 HOURS of any order being placed. Order today for delivery in North, Central or South America: www.supsew.com

Automation: We’re expanding the capabilities of our Edgehog platform. Explore new applications for your business at www.merrowedge.com

CO.ME.TA: State of the art leather manufacturing equipment is now in-stock and available in North, Central and South America exclusively through Merrow & Superior agents. Email us for more information: [email protected]

Los Angeles April Meetings: Our executive team will be available for meetings with customers and suppliers in Los Angeles from April 8th to 12th. Let’s connect. Email [email protected] to organize a meeting.

We’re Hiring: Join our team! We have openings in customer service and sales in Miami and Los Angeles. email [email protected] with your CV

Touch Base: If you’d like to touch base about what the Merrow team is doing in 2024

book a meeting: https://calendly.com/merrow

connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliemerrow/

www.merrow.com | www.supsew.com | www.merrowknits.com |
www.merrowmfg.com | www.merrowmedical.com | www.merrowedge.com | www.lancerulers.com | www.lancerulers.com

Lance® Precision Rulers are precision tools, manufactured from hardened, aerospace aluminum with a clear, anodized, scratch-resistant finish. We are ISO-9001 certified and have been approved by the National Institute of Standards.

01/30/2024

What can our do? Check out www.merrowedge.com and learn more about the Robot: EdgeHog - it's a platform for automatically edging anything, with application #1 being a Merrow(ed) .

For more information read through www.merrowedge.com and contact Merrow by email [email protected]

🤖💼 Merrow & Industry should Embrace the Robotics Revolution in Soft Goods ! 💼🤖 Investment in Automation will CREATE Jobs!


The dynamic world of robotics and automation is not just about technology; it's reshaping our job landscape in fascinating ways:

🔹 New Horizons in Employment: As robotics advances, we're seeing a surge in new career opportunities. Think programming, system maintenance, and supervisory roles for robotic operations. These emerging jobs demand specialized skills and offer exciting new professional avenues.

🔹 Growth and Expansion: Automation is a game-changer for productivity and competitiveness. Companies leveraging this tech are expanding, paving the way for new positions in management, design, logistics, and more. It's not just about replacing jobs; it's about creating new ones!

🔹 Economic Advancements: The efficiency and profitability from robotics are stimulating economic growth. Businesses are reinvesting their gains into fresh projects and innovations, further boosting job creation.

🔹 Upskilling and Reskilling: The automation wave brings a need for skill enhancement. Companies are increasingly investing in training their workforce, equipping them with the knowledge to excel in a tech-driven environment.

🔹 Transforming Roles: We're witnessing a significant shift from manual tasks to more skill-intensive roles. Today's workers are adapting, learning to collaborate with robotic technologies. Some roles are evolving, like a factory worker transitioning from assembly tasks to managing sophisticated automated systems.

The narrative isn't about robots taking jobs; it's about how they're helping us create and evolve them. Let's embrace this change and grow together!

🌟 Excited about the future of Robotic Sewing? Share your thoughts on how robotics is shaping the soft goods manufacturing industry!

01/08/2024

We're building more Merrow knit gear in - check out some of the new styles for Spring 2024 ::

One interesting thing about our knit products - we can't keep them in-stock, and that's just fine. We build as many as we think is reasonable, and they sell out quickly. Our knit programs create jobs throughout the Southcoast, and we're proud to partner with regional retail supporting Merrow products, but we don't overdo it. So come get 'em while they're here!

https://merrowknits.com/collections/flora/products/edgartown-anchor-boatneck

11/22/2023

Dear Valued Friends, Customers and Suppliers,

This Thanksgiving, the Merrow Group of Companies invites you to join us in a special initiative: Be Thankful, Donate a Meal. In the spirit of gratitude and giving, we're partnering with Feeding America to help those in need. Your donation can make a significant difference. Please consider contributing at Feeding America (https://www.feedingamerica.org/); Merrow is donating 5,000 meals (or $500) on behalf of our employees.

As we reflect on this past year, we are filled with immense gratitude for your continued support and collaboration. Your partnership & support has been vital to our growth and success across our locations in Fall River, MA, Miami, FL, and Los Angeles, CA.

On behalf of the entire team at Merrow, we want to thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Your commitment not only strengthens our business but also helps us make a positive impact in the community.

This Thanksgiving, let's spread joy and kindness together. Thank you for considering a donation to a noble cause and for being a valued member of the Merrow family.

Wishing you a season filled with thankfulness and generosity.

Warm regards,

Owen & Charlie Merrow