Change and Continuity: Regional Companies Evolve While DRIVE Stands Ready to Support

DANVILLE, PA — Two recent announcements from major employers in our region — the merger of Fabtex and a competitor and the acquisition of Techniserv, Inc. — reflect the endurance of the Susquehanna Valley’s manufacturing and technology landscape. Both moves demonstrate how local firms are adapting to new markets and global opportunities while remaining deeply rooted in Pennsylvania.
 

Threadwell: A New Chapter for a Danville Original

New signage reading “Threadwell” has appeared at the Danville facility long known as Fabtex. This change marks the merger of Fabtex and Quiltcraft Industries, announced earlier this year. “We made the decision to rebrand both companies into a new entity, which we call Threadwell Inc.,” said Eric Frantz, Director of National Accounts. “Fabtex was founded in 1986 by Robert Snyder of Danville. Coincidentally, Quiltcraft was also founded in 1986 in Dallas, Texas. With 80 years of combined experience, Threadwell services the hospitality, health care, multi-family housing, contract, and cruise line industries with bed coverings and window treatments.”

Company leaders say the merger will strengthen their market position and create opportunities for growth. “This partnership enables us to capitalize on our shared values of innovation, integrity, and excellence, creating even greater value for our clients,” said Dave Deters, Executive Vice President of Fabtex. David Pearson, CEO of Quiltcraft Industries, added, “Our combined resources and expertise will make us a truly unique and powerful service provider to the hospitality industry.” Threadwell now operates from facilities in Danville, Pennsylvania; Dallas, Texas; and Tijuana, Mexico, representing a footprint that blends local manufacturing tradition with international reach.
 

Techniserv Joins Masco Group

In another significant regional development, Masco Group, an international leader in engineering and process technologies for the biopharmaceutical sector, announced the acquisition of Techniserv, Inc., a U.S.-based expert in bioreactor and process systems headquartered in our region. “The addition of Techniserv is a natural extension of our continued growth strategy,” said Luca Borella, CEO of Masco Group. “It allows us to provide local integrated process solutions in the U.S. and other key markets — including bioreactors and all supporting process equipment, high-purity utilities, automation, and CQV.” Techniserv will continue operating under its current leadership team as part of Masco Group’s Process Business Unit, ensuring continuity for employees, clients, and suppliers. “Joining Masco Group is a great opportunity for Techniserv and our customers,” said Brandon Kotsko, President of Techniserv. “Our team, dedicated to delivering high-quality systems, can now offer more and leverage Masco Group’s engineering and manufacturing capabilities to better serve our clients. This partnership will accelerate our ability to grow and innovate — both in the U.S. and overseas.” The acquisition adds a U.S. manufacturing base to Masco’s existing facilities in Italy and Ireland, creating one of the largest global players in upstream and downstream processing for biopharma manufacturing.
 

How DRIVE Supports Businesses Through Change

When companies in our region merge, rebrand, or become part of global networks, it affects more than ownership structures, impacting employees, suppliers, infrastructure needs, and the ways they engage with the community.
That’s where DRIVE’s Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) efforts come in. Through proactive engagement, DRIVE is available to help companies navigate transitions and remain integral parts of the regional economy.
 

Our services include:
•    Confidential company visits to identify emerging challenges and opportunities.
•    Connections to state and federal programs, including financing, tax credits, and technical assistance.
•    Workforce development coordination with partners such as CareerLink®, and local colleges to address retraining or hiring needs.
•    Work with partners to provide site selection assistance for local expansion

By maintaining close relationships with employers like Threadwell and Techniserv, DRIVE ensures our region is not just reacting to change but leveraging it for future growth.
 

Looking Ahead

Economic transitions are inevitable, but they don’t have to be destabilizing. As local companies evolve and new local and global partnerships form, DRIVE remains a resource for helping them grow, reinvest, and continue providing high quality jobs across the Susquehanna Valley. To learn more about DRIVE’s business retention and expansion services or request assistance, visit Business Resource Page or contact DRIVE at info@driveindustry.com.

Article by Aidan McDonald