Good News Story--Blanket Mill Reopens in Minnnesota

Photo of the Original Fairbault Woolen Mills courtesy of the Minnesota Historical Society

Thanks to cousins Chuck and Paul Mooty, the Fairbault Woolen Mills, established in 1865 and closed in 2009 , reopened September 15, 2011with 35 employees to produce the world-class blankets that earned the brand its global reputation for fine quality products.  The Mooty's, who live in the town of 23,000 inhabitants, rescued the plant a scant three weeks before the equipment was supposed to ship to Pakistan.  The Mooty's credit their decision to a need for a challenge, a desire to help the community, and their belief that the brand Fairbro will regain its popularity in a world overrun with synthetics.

Paul Mooty, left, and Chuck Mooty, right inside Fairbeault

A former CEO of Dairy Queen, Chuck Mooty serves as the mill's CEO and brings his business acumen and energy to the company.  Paul Mooty, a lawyer, can use his expertise in the legal aspects of running the mill, as well as pulling from his 10-year experience running a business.  However, neither cousin knows how to make woolen blankets and throws.  That's where people like Jenny Jones, who  worked at the mill for 4 years, come in.  She's back!  So is Mary Bourdreau.  Her 50 years at the mill will provide invaluable knowledge to share with new employees.  Most of the people hired thus far previously worked at Fairbeault.  All expressed genuine delight at returning and gratitude to the new owners.

Christmas arrived early for this Minnesota town and Ham on Wry finds great pleasure in writing this post, considering my last post called for the return of manufacturing to America.  Small businesses add a greater share of new jobs than large companies, according to "An Analysis of Small Business and Jobs" by Brian Headd, Office of Advocacy, Small Business Administration March 2010.  Kudos to the Mooty cousins in taking a risk that will probably pay off.  The Waldorf Astoria received the first shipment from the mill, and the CEO sees the hotel market as prime for Fairbeault's product line.  This month, a store will open at the Mall of the Americas in Minnesota.

Readers, take a giant step and buy American for Christmas.  I am making a commitment to search for as long as it takes to find labels that state, "Made in America."