Minus33 Merino Wool marked a major expansion and honored the 110‑year history of its Ashland business. The Oct. 27 ribbon‑cutting ceremony underscored its growth and regional impact.
The company traces its roots to L.W. Packard, founded in 1916 by Luther Woodbury Packard, and now operates under Minus33 after John Glidden handed leadership to his son Lawson. After moving to winter and recreational apparel in 2002, Minus33 outgrew its Mill Street location and purchased the former NOK Sealing Technologies property on Main Street, creating a 21,000‑square‑foot facility with a 15,000‑square‑foot plant and product showroom.
Lawson Glidden said the new space will be occupied in January 2027, effectively doubling the company’s size, while the team remains busy filling orders through the holiday season. The firm currently employs about two dozen staff and plans to add a handful of employees each year, and it continues to donate clothing and blanket kits to search‑and‑rescue teams nationwide.
John Glidden attributes the company’s longevity to a focus on serving customers now, pragmatic decision‑making, and steady growth without major diversification, with a goal of reaching $40 million in annual revenue within five years. He notes that the brand does not chase new inventions but relies on timeless customer service and a pragmatic, Yankee sensibility to stay competitive against well‑funded rivals.
Source: www.nhbr.com
