EDEN, N.C.—Karastan is celebrating 90 years of innovation and history at its Eden, N.C., facility where the company’s first rug flowed from the power loom on April 8, 1928.
“Our team takes an immense amount of pride in the products we create here,” said Plant Manager Darin Quesinberry. “We couldn’t celebrate nine decades of Karastan without recognizing the remarkable contributions of the men and women here in Eden. They are truly artisans, and many have been with the company for decades. Their commitment to consistently exceeding consumer expectations for beauty and performance have helped Karastan become the legendary brand it is today.”
The company’s history of producing rugs dates back to when U.S retailer Marshall Field’s commissioned a unique machine capable of recreating the detailed craftsmanship, vibrant colors and sumptuous feel of a hand-woven rug. The new, machine-made rugs rivaled their handmade counterparts, and their accessible luxury became the enduring hallmark of the Karastan brand. In 1993, Mohawk Industries acquired Karastan.
“Karastan is renowned for its artistry and innovation and has set the industry standard for craftsmanship and durability,” said Brian Carson, president of Mohawk Flooring North America. “The products they create here are more than flooring. They are the centerpiece of homes all over the country. For decades, these rugs have been passed down as heirlooms, and families have marked countless milestones on carpets that defined gracious living.”
Karastan formally celebrated the impressive milestone in August, when Eden Mayor Neville Hall and Mayor Pro-tem Jim Burnett joined roughly 300 Mohawk and Karastan employees and their family and friends as they took part in plant tours, refreshments, photo opportunities and games.
“I’ve had great-grandparents, grandparents and parents work here,” said electrical technician Don Hudgins. “I guess you could say I’m fourth generation. It’s just a testament to the product that we make and the team that we’ve been in business for 90 years.”
For more information, visit karastan.com.