Park V Leather to stay in US
Following its acquisition late last week of garment maker Park V Leather, high-end clothing company Daniel & Evans, LLC announced yesterday that Park V Leather will reopen immediately - and all operations will remain in the
"Park V has been a leader in the leather apparel industry since the 1980s. I am very pleased that we had the opportunity to preserve this true American leather legend," said Daniel & Evans president Scott D. Gussin. "Our staff is among the most skilled in the industry. For that reason, and because it's the right thing to do, we are keeping Park V 100% American made."
Gussin added that other parties had been interested in purchasing Park V but intended to move the company overseas. In stark contrast, Gussin decided Park V needed to stay put - and that original Park V craftsman Gus Kostidakis should have a role in the company's rebirth. "I could not let an American icon be dismantled and shipped overseas," Gussin explained.
"That scenario has happened too many times already, taking dollars out of this country and hurting many working families financially. That wasn't what I wanted Park V to be known for. So instead, we are focusing on Park V's legendary made-in-the-USA quality, durability and style. The best way to do that is with Gus's expertise and an outstanding team of American workers." Gussin challenged the popular belief that American companies can't compete against offshore manufacturing operations, citing Park V's high grade of leather, the garments' industry leading fit and the company's original designs.
Park V's new 2004 winter line will debut at the Magic Marketplace in
