Fletcher, N.C. – A Heartfelt Goodbye to Diamond Brand Gear Company
In a poignant turn of events, the Diamond Brand Gear Company, a beloved fixture in the Fletcher community for over 80 years, has officially announced its permanent closure. The company’s CEO, John Delaloye, made the difficult decision following the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which brought devastating flooding that the company simply could not recover from.
Flood Aftermath: A Scene of Destruction
When the waters receded, Delaloye and his team were met with a shocking sight: their building flooded with nearly three feet of water. The damage was extensive, ruining not only equipment but also the vast inventory that had been carefully built over decades. “We were left with almost nothing,” Delaloye shared, reflecting on the heart-wrenching day when they first set foot in their waterlogged facility. Headlamps in hand, they navigated through the chaos, fully aware that their dream was slipping away.
Considerations for the Future
Despite the initial shock, Delaloye tried to remain optimistic and considered various alternatives, including relocating temporarily to a different town like Morganton to keep the business afloat. However, as financial realities set in, it became clear that the cost was beyond what they could manage. “I really tried to keep a positive outlook, but this was brutal,” he admitted, feeling the weight of the decision.
The Personal Impact
As a smaller business, Diamond Brand Gear was not just a company; it was a family. Many of Delaloye’s 35 employees had been with the company for years, with some celebrating remarkable milestones such as a 44th anniversary. Informing these dedicated individuals about the closure was an incredibly difficult task that weighed heavily on Delaloye’s heart. “It was really tough to send termination letters, especially since we prefer personal interactions rather than emails,” he explained.
A Generous Spirit Amid Hardship
Even in their final days, the spirit of giving shone through. Acknowledging that many of their belongings were now surplus, Delaloye and his team made the compassionate choice to donate salvageable items to local organizations, hoping to provide support to those in need as a way to make a difference during such challenging times.
A Legacy to Celebrate
Looking over the years, Delaloye remains proud of what Diamond Brand Gear accomplished. “It has been such a blessing to contribute positively to our community,” he remarked, appreciating the chance to keep alive a piece of manufacturing that has largely moved overseas. The company not only produced gear but also taught valuable skills to its employees, empowering them to grow personally and professionally.
A Closing Chapter
As Diamond Brand prepares to close its doors on December 18th, there’s a bittersweet sense of completion. Delaloye acknowledges that while he wishes things could continue, he does so without regrets. The lessons learned and experiences shared will definitely enrich the lives of all who have been a part of this journey.
The Road Ahead
As Fletcher bids farewell to this historic business, it’s clear that the legacy of Diamond Brand Gear Company will endure in the hearts of the many who worked there and in the community it served. For those wishing to reflect on the company’s rich history, there’s an opportunity to visit their website and explore the impact they have made over the decades.
As we say goodbye to a valued establishment, let’s take a moment to appreciate the memories and contributions of the Diamond Brand Gear Company to our community.
