American Textile Co. plans new HQ

By Marvin Lazaro -- Home Textiles Today, 12/17/2001 12:00:00 AM

PITTSBURGH —

In an effort to enhance its level of retail service, The American Textile Co. last week announced plans to build a combined world headquarters/distribution facility.

The new HQ will be located at RIDC Riverplace City Center in Duquesne, PA. Groundbreaking for the project is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2002.

"Our new world headquarters will enable American Textile Co. to serve our customers better and continue our growth," said Jack Ouellette, president and ceo of the Pittsburgh-based manufacturer. "The new distribution facility will allow us to ship products to our customers within 24 hours of receipt of orders, making us one of the most efficient suppliers to retailers in the United States."

American Textile is known for its wide range and production of private label mattress and pillow protectors, most notably its allergen barrier line.

According to the company, the new state-of-the-art facility will be comprised of 110,000 square feet, with costs approximated at $8 million. Desmone & Associates have been hired to design the building, while The Elmhurst Group will manage the construction project.

"We want American Textile to be a great place to work," Ouellette said. "Our new office space will be a modern, quiet and pleasing environment for our employees and guests. It will also be a headquarters emblematic of our long-term commitment to being an industry leader and a good corporate citizen. We are especially pleased to be part of the ongoing rejuvenation of Duquesne and the productive development of RIDC Riverplace City Center."

A search for a new site for the company began roughly a year ago when American Textile's sales and growing product could no longer be accommodated by its present location. Company executives conducted an extensive search throughout Pennsylvania's Allegheny County and other counties. They ultimately selected Duquesne for its accessibility, while maintaining the company's roots in the state.

"My dad and his brothers started out in this area making mattress covers and ironing board covers for Sears in 1925," said Reid Ruttenberg, chairman. "Today American Textile has a global market, advanced technology and market-leading products. This new facility positions us for another 75 years of growth and innovation right here where our roots are, and we are ecstatic about that."