TOUGH BUTTONS

Emsig Introduces Unbreakable Button

New York trim supplier Emsig Manufacturing Co. has introduced an unbreakable button the company promises can withstand a compression test of 2,000 pounds per square inch.

Made in Emsig’s U.S. factory in Putnam, Conn., the UBD is a pearl-finish button available in four colors—white, two shades of off-white and smoke—and in two sizes. The buttons are UL-approved and are manufactured from 100 percent U.S. materials.

“It took us about a year to develop it, but that’s what we do—we innovate,” said Emsig President Larry Jacobs. “We’ve been in this business since 1928, producing our product and selling directly to the apparel industry.”

The UBD is about 40 percent thicker than typical buttons—making them easier to button—and because they are not made from a petrochemical material, the UBD buttons do not burn or support combustion, the company said.

“The majority of buttons are made of polyester, which burns with a hot flame and gives off toxic smoke, “Jacobs said. “This material—you can hit it with a blow torch, and it will glow red like a piece of steel. It is truly unbreakable.”

The family-owned business has operations around the world, including manufacturing facilities in China and India—where Emsig can quickly deliver product to its customers’ overseas factories. Since 1940, the company has been supplying the U.S. military with product manufactured in its U.S. facility.

“In December, I will begin my 60th year with the company,” Jacobs said, adding, “I’ve been president for only 40 years. I’ve been in this business a long time.”

For more information, visit www.emsig.com.