Hey Brother, Can You Spare A Dime For The Eastern Shore?

GOVERNOR O’MALLEY AND CARROLL COUNTY OFFICIALS ANNOUNCE OPENING, EXPANSION OF CUSTOM CLOTHIER FACILITIES

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley, along with Carroll County Economic Development officials announced the opening of a new Carlisle Etcetera LLC national distribution center and the expansion of English American Tailoring Company in Westminster. Both companies are part of the Tom James Company - the world's largest manufacturer and retailer of custom clothing. Relocating from New York, Carlisle Etcetera is planning to purchase the former Marada building and establish a facility for women’s apparel. The English American Tailoring Company is planning to retain its current operations and 380 full-time employees in Westminster and expand its custom men’s apparel facility. As part of the new facility and expansion, the companies plan to add an additional 75 employees over the next five years.

“The continued investment in Maryland and Carroll County by the Tom James Company sends a strong message that we have the kind of highly-skilled workforce, supportive business climate and strategic location that world-class companies need to grow,” said Governor O’Malley. “This success has not happened by accident, but because of the strategic choices we're making together to build a strong, growing and resilient economy.”

Dave Rousch, President of the Board of Carroll County Commissioners, supported the project. “This is a great example of why the retention of resident industries is so important,” he said. “In Carroll County we put a great emphasis on nurturing our local companies so they are positioned to grow and expand right here.”

“A significant part of our decision to relocate our national distribution center from Long Island City, New York to Westminster was the assistance provided by the State of Maryland and Carroll County Economic Development, which is helping us to hire and train new employees at the center,” said Jim Brubaker, CEO of Carlisle Etcetera. “Westminster has been a great place for Tom James to make high-end custom clothes for over 30 years. Our new women’s facility plus the expansion of the Tom James English American factory further anchors Tom James’ commitment to Westminster and the State of Maryland as a great place to do business.”

As part of the project, the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) has approved a $250,000 conditional loan based on job creation and retention and capital expenditure. In addition, Carroll County has approved a $30,000 job training grant to assist in training new employees.

Headquartered in New York, Carlisle is a high-end fashion company that produces couture dresses, suits, separates, and accessories with a sense of classic style that is modern yet appropriate for any professional or social occasion. It was founded in 1981 and acquired in 2012 by Tom James Company and Royal Spirit Limited of Hong Kong. Founded more than 100 years ago, the English American Tailoring Company manufactures high quality men’s garments.