On Tuesday, Kitsbow, a leading manufacturer of cycling apparel and accessories that moved its operations more than three years ago from the San Francisco Bay Area to Old Fort, announced it would permanently close.
Alert Featured Editor's Pick
Local leaders react to Kitsbow announcement
Apparel maker closing
UPDATE: Local leaders react to closing of Old Fort apparel maker Kitsbow
Old Fort Ride House also shuts down
1 of 6
On Tuesday, Kitsbow in Old Fort announced it would permanently close. In December 2019, the leading manufacturer of cycling apparel and accessories announced it would move its operations from California to Old Fort. It took over a section of the former Parker Hosiery building. This photo shows a customer looking at the apparel made by Kitsbow.
This photo shows a part of the Old Fort Ride House in September 2021. There, you could shop for Kitsbow apparel that is perfectly suited for biking, hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Kitsbow CEO David Billstrom said at that time almost all of the products on display were made upstairs in the manufacturing shop.
In this photo from September 2021, Kitsbow CEO David Billstrom stands next to one of the sewing machines used by the company’s employees. During the COVID pandemic, Kitsbow also made face masks and face shields.
In this file photo, Kitsbow CEO David Billstrom stands at the entrance to the Old Fort Ride House.
This photo from September 2021 shows Kitsbow’s manufacturing shop on the second floor as well lit, air conditioned and constantly kept clean. “This is not your grandmother’s sewing operation,” said CEO David Billstrom at the time.
Kitsbow also opened the Old Fort Ride House, which was a place where cyclists and hikers could get food, coffee and a place to rest and relax. The Ride House is now closed permanently for food and drink sales, but will be open for product sales.
Most Popular
The driver of an electric bike was declared dead at the scene, according to highway patrol.
Upon arrival, crews found one patient with critical injuries. Paramedics took the person to Mission Hospital McDowell.
As of Tuesday morning, the fire is 185 acres in size and 20% contained.
“Folks are paying attention, and they’re ready to head to the polls in the midterms and vote for leadership that respects all Americans.”
The victim of the fatal wreck was Cayden Jay McKinney, 15 years old.
