Today we’d like to introduce you to George and Krissy Harb.
John Harb Sewing Machine has been in business since 1960! George took over the business from his father, John, in 1989. The Harb Family are immigrants from Palestine, and in 1956 when George was born, the family had to make a new life in America. They moved to LA and began selling industrial sewing machines when the industry was booming, manufacturing was not yet outsourced, and DTLA was the main place for production.
George started working at John Harb Sew right out of high school & learned the way of the business. He is now the only owner & has experienced all aspects of the manufacturing industry including the highs and lows, and now the dwindling industry that once supported his entire family to make a great life in Los Angeles. He has sold sewing machines to all industries, from high end fashion, coffins, prisons, aerospace, and the small little lady still hand sewing dresses, George has seen it all. If you come to the shop, chances are you’ll run into George, a character, with a big heart, still selling sewing machines to fit your needs.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Not at all, the industry is dwindling, so to experience the evolution of the industry has been the largest struggle. Owning a small business in DTLA is also a challenge in itself, with high taxes & low margins, seeming to be the current trend.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about John Harb Sewing Machine Co. – what should we know?
We sell industrial sewing machines, specializing in the garment, defense, entertainment, prison and academic industries. We are known for our family owned & operated business, we have been around for what seems like forever. We are proud of our ability to find you the exact machine you need to fit your need.
Our heart sets us apart from others, in this industry it is certainly a grind, but if you come check us out you’ll notice something we have that others don’t, heart.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
George’s father, John, and George’s daughter, Krissy, who now plays a role in the financial aspects of the business. Also, our employees who have been with us for so long, we consider them family.
Contact Info:
- Address: 182 E. Jefferson Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90011 - Website: http://johnharbsew.com
- Phone: 323-234-3336
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_harb_sewing_machine_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnHarbSewingMachine/
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
