One might synopsize the story of Vermont Precision Woodworks as "from Beethoven to bunk beds" -- but there's a lot more to the story.

Vermont Precision Woodworks of Morrisville and its predecessors have been in business since the early 1900's. In the early 1970's the company began producing wood components for the musical instrument industry -- Baldwin pianos, guitar necks for Fender -- with some furniture pieces as well for LL Bean, Vermont Tubbs and a few others. But the company was losing money.

In 1989 it looked like the parent company -- Pratt Read Company -- was going to close the plant. The plant manager ran into Howard Manosh at a Rotary Meeting and told him of the situation. That same week Geoff Jackson, who was a local CPA, dropped some paperwork off at Howard's office. Howard explained the situation and his desire to keep the plant and the 100 employees working.

In an effort to get some objective information Howard asked Geoff to look at the plant. After some deliberation Howard and Geoff decided to become business partners and purchase the plant, Geoff Jackson has been President of the company ever since.

The company now focuses on solid wood specialty products, concentrating on Master Bedroom as well as children's furniture. After a trip to one of the premier wood products trade shows in North Carolina, Highpoint, their classic design, craftsmanship and use of solid Vermont maple has helped the company grow.

The company purchases lumber locally and process it completely from the drying in its own kilns to the packing of the finished product.

They produce several different styles of bunk beds and beds and various styles of cases to complement all of their beds. They are renowned for the diversity of finishes offered: Natural, White, Cherry, Colonial, Cinnamon, Forest Green, Cranberry, Harbor Blue and Sundance.

"We're very proud of our master bedroom suites with our best selling Manchester Set," says Jackson. "We've also just launched a new solid cherry line this Fall that's spectacular."

VT Precision works with dealers across the U.S. and encourages people to find and support their local dealers.

This year the company will be presenting a number of their products to Crate and Barrel. Jackson feels that the product the company builds is right in line with the style and quality expected from Crate and Barrel customers. "I think we're a great fit," he said.

New this December is the opening of the VT Precision Woodwork's retail outlet. An open house will run through January and the public is invited to view and purchase overstocks and repaired items at a discount. The long range plan is for the outlet to become a destination where the company will partner with local artisans to display and sell their works.


For more information:
Vermont Precision Woodworks
249 Professional Drive
Morrisville VT 05661
802-888-7974
http://www.vtprecision.com