We Bought Our Factory!

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1620 Workwear Acquires Classic Apparel of Boston, Cementing Vertical Integration and Commitment to U.S. Manufacturing

BOSTON, MA – September 9, 2025– In a strategic move to vertically integrate its operations and strengthen domestic supply chain resilience, 1620 Workwear, Inc has acquired Classic Apparel of Boston, the Massachusetts-based cut-and-sew facility that has served as its primary product development and manufacturing partner since the brand’s commercial launch in 2017.

The deal marks a significant milestone for 1620, which has scaled steadily over the past eight years while maintaining a steadfast commitment to American-made performance workwear. The acquisition allows the company to take full control of its garment production processes, while reinforcing its position as a leader in high-quality, domestically produced technical apparel for the trades.

“Classic Apparel has been the backbone of our production since day one,” said Ted De Innocentis, Co-Founder and CEO of 1620 Workwear. “Bringing this operation in-house is the natural next step in our evolution. It gives us the ability to scale with precision, protect our quality standards, and innovate faster without relying on outsourced infrastructure.”

Classic Apparel, located in East Boston, specializes in short- to medium-run cut-and-sew manufacturing and has long been known for its craftsmanship, quality and versatility. Under the new structure, the facility will operate as WKWR Manufacturing, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of 1620 Workwear. The company has retained the factory’s leadership team to ensure continuity, while planning strategic investments in machinery, workflow, and workforce development.

For 1620, the move is as much about operational advantage as it is about mission.

“The only path to success in the U.S. apparel industry is vertical integration,” added De Innocentis. “This acquisition positions us to own more of our value chain, shorten lead times, respond to demand in real-time, and protect our IP—all while investing in American jobs and craftsmanship.”

The acquisition also reflects a broader trend toward regionality and supply chain consolidation in the apparel sector, especially among brands looking to ensure continuity, quality, and traceability.

About 1620 Workwear

Founded in 2017, 1620 Workwear designs and manufactures technical workwear for the modern tradesperson. With a focus on developing proprietary technical fabrics, highly functional designs and a no-compromise manufacturing ethos, 1620 is redefining durability and comfort in the workwear category. The brand is based in Amesbury, MA, with manufacturing operations now anchored in East Boston.

About Classic Apparel of Boston

Classic Apparel is a contract manufacturing facility with more than two decades of experience serving premium U.S. apparel brands and the US Government. Specializing in cut-and-sew production, the factory has long been recognized for its ability to manufacture highly complex products with flexibility and speed.