Workers at Arizona upholstery company making masks to meet demand during COVID-19 pandemic

PHOENIX - As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, employees at American Upholstery are extremely busy sewing, cutting, and ironing.

Usually, workers are making luxury chairs, but they are now answering the call for the need for masks.

"A lot of us are here 12, 14 hours a day to try to keep the quota up," said Manager Steven Groat.

American Upholstery's owner bought fabric of non-woven polypropylene, and told employees if they can design and make masks out of them, they can keep the proceeds for their family during this tough time.

"It is a great feeling. He actually cares about us. He worries about us and our families/ I have never worked for someone like that ever in my life," said Groat.

This gesture is motivating the employees to work harder for him and those in the community who need Personal Protective Equipment, and there is a need.

People have been lining up around the block. hoping to get their hands on their designs.

"Seeing the need people have, the fear and it is a real fear knowing we can help them out is great," said American Upholstery Lead Designer Michael Reimanis.

American Upholstery has rolls and rolls of fabric, and workers say they are going to continue making masks, until there is no longer a need.

The store is located on Camelback and 7th Avenue, and they are open from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

American Upholstery
4970 N 7th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85013
(480) 399-7516

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