True Fabrications Reaches 8000 Store Milestone

SEATTLE, May 26 /PRNewswire/ -- At a time when many businesses in the wine industry struggle for survival, one organization in Seattle has created a formula for success. Wine accessories from True Fabrications are now available in over 8000 retail locations, the company announced today. In six years, they have grown to become the second largest wine accessory company in North America.

Nik Patel, True Fabrications marketing director, reports sales have grown 360% over the past four years. Preliminary data for 2010 puts the company on track for 20% sales growth this year.

The company's rapid expansion into stores bucks the trend now confronting the rest of the wine industry, which faces its worst downturn in 20 years. Bloomberg News reports that U.S. retail wine sales dropped 3.3 percent in 2009 as consumers cut back on discretionary spending.  

The brainchild of three former Berkley roommates, True Fabrications started in 2004 by selling a new type of gift bag to local wine shops. A family garage served as headquarters. At the time, none of the young partners possessed any experience in the industry except for a love of wine. "We had a lot to learn because none of us had any idea of what to do or how to do it," said Patel.

Today the same college friends, along with a staff of 30 employees, produce and distribute over 600 wine-related accessories. Major retailers such as Whole Foods and Cost Plus, as well as 1000's of independent wineries and liquor stores, now carry True Fabrications corkscrews and glassware.

The iconic Sixth Avenue Wine Seller in Seattle was one of the first shops in the area to offer True Fabrications items in its store. Owner Bev Shimada attributes demand for the company's products with their design and innovation. "They're pretty cutting-edge with new items - they listen to the consumer and they're always out there and on top of it," said Shimada.

Ben Inadomi, True Fabrication's sales director, offers another explanation for their growth, "Our customer service is really unparalleled. We respond instantly to any customer concerns - no questions asked." As an example, Inadomi points out a program that gives merchants credit for unsold merchandise. The company also helps retailers by rotating out older products with fresh inventory, all at no extra charge.

To keep pace with their expansion, the company recently moved to an updated warehouse facility and hired additional staff in every department. Inadomi says keeping pace with the changing tastes of wine drinkers is part of their job. "We're introducing over 100 new products this year," said Inadomi. "Our merchants are really excited."

For more information, visit the company's website at http://www.truefabrications.com

This press release was issued through eReleases(R).  For more information, visit eReleases Press Release Distribution at http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE True Fabrications