Michigan-Based Carhartt to Produce Masks and Gowns for Hospitals

Michigan-based Carhartt, who most know for producing jackets, overalls, and boots, are switching gears among the coronavirus pandemic and will be producing masks and gowns for hospitals.

In a statement on their website, Carhartt said that they will begin making hospital gowns on April 6 and masks on April 20th. They say that they will continue to make them, "as long as these critical items are in short supply."

Mark Valade, Chief Executive Officer at Carhartt said in a press release,

We are humbled and honored to help all the essential workers serving and protecting us right now.

The company says that associates have volunteered to come in and work on these items (they will be compensated), and that they are making sure to practice proper social distancing for their safety.

On March 15, Carhartt temporarily closed all company-owned stores. The following day they implemented temporary rotating paid work schedules in their manufacturing and distribution facilities to encourage social distancing among associates.