Foundational Years (1960s–1980s)
- Establishment (1966): The company was founded by Herb Mock and Hy Aresty, who identified a need for a dedicated drapery workroom in Rochester.
- Initial Focus (1966-1970): From its inception, the business focused on a niche market, manufacturing draperies and valances for department stores such as Sibley’s and McCurdy’s.
- Adjusted Focus (1970s): Within a short period, Herb & Hy changed their focus to serving commercial businesses such as Eastman Kodak, Xerox and Bausch & Lomb.
New Ownership with Renewed Energy (1993-2022)
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New Ownership (1993): The company was purchased by Mark Kosinski and David Geen, who infused new energy and attention into a three-decade-old business.
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New Focus & Energy (1994-2022): The new owners quickly concentrated on growing their market beyond the local marketplace, and expanded into the Buffalo, Syracuse and the Southern Tier. Additionally, they challenged a talented workforce to expand manufacturing capabilities and product lines.
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Expanded Product Lines (1994-2022): Over the decades, the company expanded its product offerings to include high-demand industrial and commercial solutions, such as blueshade® roller shades, motorization, SnapCubicle™ hospital privacy curtains, Stage Curtains, track hardware, and more.
- Expanded Manufacturing Capabilities (1994-Present): The company aggressively expanded its manufacturing capabilities by investing in high-speed fabric cutting machines, shade fabric welders, aluminum cutting saws, bulk storage, and a software system to assist in inventory control, quoting, and billing.
- Relocation (2010): In February 2010, Drapery Industries moved the business to its current location at 175 Humboldt Street, in Rochester, NY. The significant increase in square footage, drive-up docks, and abundant parking propelled growth in all aspects of the business.
- Industry Leader (1994-Present): Drapery Industries has evolved into an Industry Leader, providing specification, training seminars, and design expertise to Architects, Contractors, and Designers.
- Commitment to Local Manufacturing: Unlike many competitors, the company has maintained a vertically integrated model, managing every stage from sales, specification, design, manufacturing to final installation.
Modern Era and 60th Anniversary
(2022-Present)
New Leadership and Hiring (2022-Present): In July 2022, Eric Kosinski purchased 50% of the business and created a partnership with David Geen. The new ownership has focused on hiring talented, energetic people across all disciplines of the company, fostering growth and expertise.
Regional Reach: Its service area has grown to cover all of New York State and surrounding regions, including Buffalo, Syracuse, and Albany, and south into down-state counties.
60-Year Milestone: In 2026, the company reflects on its longevity as a testament to its core values of integrity and American-made quality. We deeply appreciate our customers who continue to entrust us to provide high quality products and services in the commercial window treatment marketplace.
With Sincere Gratitude,
David Geen
President
Eric Kosinski
Vice President
Thank You for Supporting Us for 60 Years
As a Thank you to our Valued Customers, enter our 60th Anniversary Drawing for your chance to win one of these items!
