#Weaving

2026-02-19

Itema America acquires Palmetto Loom Reed, strengthening local manufacturing and service in the U.S.

Photo Caption: (left to right): Itema America CFO Stephanie Ort, Itema America Area Sales Manager Doug Merritt, Itema America President Scott Malcolm, Itema Group Chief Sales and Service Officer Matteo Mutti, Palmetto Loom Reed President and Owner Gladys Richardson, Palmetto Loom Reed Sales Manager Ron Lemonds, and Palmetto Loom Reed Business Development Phillip Gilliland cut the ribbon celebrating Itema America’s acquisition of Palmetto Loom Reed. Photo — Devin Steele, eTextileCommunucations.com

Itema America, the U.S. subsidiary of Italy-based Itema Group, has acquired – through an Assets Purchase Agreement – Palmetto Loom Reed, a Greenville, South Carolina-based manufacturer of weaving reeds and one of the last remaining domestic producers of these precision components in the United States.

Founded in 1913, Palmetto Loom Reed has supplied custom-made reeds to textile producers across North America and selected international markets for more than a century. The company will continue to operate retaining its current workforce and production capabilities.

The operation supports Itema’s long-term strategy to expand its local manufacturing footprint and strengthen service to North American textile producers. By integrating Palmetto’s reed manufacturing, beam refurbishing and spare parts capabilities, Itema America further enhances its ability to provide fast, reliable and comprehensive support to customers throughout the region.

“This deal represents a strategic step toward becoming a full-service domestic partner for the U.S. weaving industry,” said Scott Malcolm, Vice President of Itema America. “Palmetto Loom Reed is a successful company with a respected brand, and our goal is to preserve its heritage while expanding the value we offer to customers.”

Matteo Mutti, Chief Sales and Service Officer of Itema Group, added: “This investment strengthens our service network in the Americas and improves responsiveness to customer needs. Manufacturing reeds locally offers clear advantages in terms of cost, lead time and logistics, while reinforcing our commitment to U.S. textile producers.”

The transaction was supported by Itema Group’s Board of Directors and CEO, Ugo Ghilardi, as part of the Group’s broader strategy to increase proximity to customers and invest in regional industrial capabilities.

With this step, Itema America confirms its confidence in U.S. manufacturing and reinforces its position as a trusted partner for the weaving industry in North America.