TEXTILES.ORG
Eastman Machine Company, Buffalo, N.Y., begins 2013 celebrating 125 years of making textile cutting fast and efficient for its customers. The company was founded in 1888 by George Eastman following his invention of the first electric fabric cutting machine. Eastman mounted a fractional electric motor to a platform attached to a reciprocating knife mechanism. The invention revolutionized the apparel industry, ending tedious manual cutting-room labor. The company was acquired by the Stevenson family in 1898 and has thrived for five generations as a family-owned and operated business.
Eastman’s focus on streamlining cutting operations for its customers continues to this day. Serving customers in more than 100 countries, the company is a global leader in the design and manufacture of manually-operated cutting machines and automated (CNC) cutting systems, as well as complementary software technologies that increase cutting room efficiencies and reduce associated operating costs.
“We are excited that the company has reached this milestone,” said Robert L. Stevenson, Eastman Machine Company president and CEO. “The company is proud to honor the outstanding contributions of the people who have been a part of our history, and the current employees that are inspiring our future. The continued focus on providing innovative answers to modern manufacturing needs has positioned the company well for the future; we plan to continue to provide reliable products, services and solutions that benefit our customers.”
The company’s anniversary will be celebrated throughout the year with special events for its customers and employees.