Calhoun, Ga.—For 90 years, the talented and dedicated men and women at Karastan’s Eden, N.C., manufacturing facility have crafted a legacy of beauty, quality and performance. This weekend the company honored the contributions of employees past and present with an open house celebration.
“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. “None of that would have been possible without the commitment to excellence of this plant’s people and their commitment to carrying on the Karastan tradition. The products they create here are more than flooring. They are the centerpiece of homes all over the country. They are where memories are made. For decades, these rugs have been passed down as heirlooms, and families have marked countless milestones on carpets that defined gracious living. Our colleagues here in Eden have a great deal to be proud of, and I want to thank each of them for their dedication to creating the highest quality rugs and carpet for consumers everywhere.”
To mark this significant milestone, Mohawk invited employees and family members to visit the manufacturing facility August 26, for plant tours, refreshments, photo opportunities and games. Approximately 300 people joined in the festivities, celebrating the long history of the Eden location and the individuals who have contributed to its success over the past 90 years.
“Our team takes an immense amount of pride in the products we create here,” said Darin Quesinberry, plant manager. “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.”
Many employees are not the first from their families to work for Karastan. “I’ve had great-grandparents, grandparents and parents work here,” said Don Hudgins, electrical technician. “I guess you could say I’m fourth generation. It’s just a testament to the product we make and the team that we’ve been in business for 90 years.”
Garland Neblett, warehouse manager, said one thing that sets the Eden facility apart is the pride people take in their work. “Working here becomes part of who you are and people take a lot of ownership in what they do,” he said. “I enjoy coming to work and the craft of what we do here. That’s a big part of my 23-year tenure—it’s the caring mentality. That’s what this place is about.”
Mohawk Flooring’s Carson; Michel Vermette, Mohawk Group president and chief sustainability officer; Phil Brown, senior vice president of human sesources; and Jackie Dettmar, vice president of commercial product development, attended the event to celebrate this milestone with employees. Neville Hall, Eden mayor, and Jim Burnett, mayor pro-tem, toured the facility and met with employees during the open house.