Gator Cases Alters Operations to Provide Masks
The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted common practices in everyday lives throughout the globe. With medical experts now promoting the use of face masks to protect communities, citizens throughout the world are looking for the safest and most reliable options in personal protective equipment. NAMM Member, Gator Cases has answered the call to manufacture face masks to help those who desperately need the protection, but do not yet have access to masks.
Gator Cases, established in 2000 by father-daughter team Jerry Freed and Crystal Morris provides “case and bag solutions for pro audio, IT, audio visual, general utility, band instrument, and percussion,” utilizing materials such as “vacuum-formed plastics, rotational-molded plastics, wood, sewn, and EVA materials.” Based in Tampa, Florida, Gator Cases felt compelled to offer their expertise and services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The company launched a line of fabric face masks that include a pocket for a reusable filter. The proceeds generated from the sales of these masks will be applied to the donation of masks and filters to those in need.
We spoke with Crystal Morris, Gator Co.'s Founder and CEO, about the project.
What prompted Gator Cases to answer the call to start producing masks?
I was reading a lot of the media reports on the increasing need for masks, especially for those on the frontlines fighting this pandemic. It compelled me research how we can help. Gator Cases already possessed the capabilities and desire to get involved. This was very much a mission for a worthy cause.
Could you provide some specifications on the masks and how they compare to others on the market?
We researched a lot of references on how to make masks from medical experts. Having a replaceable filter with multiple layers was key. Other important features were that each mask needs to be reusable and adjustable. We tested a few design concepts and landed on a three-layer design that had a pocket to insert a replaceable filter with washable fabric and adjustable ties. The biggest differentiators between our masks and many you see coming to market are the multiple layers and reusable and replaceable filters, which we also provide. Professionals are calling for a mask with any number of layers, and ours provides more than the minimum recommendation.
Editor’s Note: Masks are constructed of machine-washable and reusable cotton fabric with adjustable straps providing a proper fit. Each mask comes with a felt replacement filter cut to fit inside the mask and die-cut instructions to make replaceable filters. Five patterns are available, including two music-themed patterns. Felt replacement filters are also for sale in a set of three.
How many masks have been manufactured to date?
The response and need for these masks has been overwhelming. We have made about 500 thus far and we are increasing our production every day.
What challenges arose when converting to manufacturing masks from your traditional product lines?
- Sourcing new materials and supplies have been a challenge from the start. We have expertise in sewn goods, but these masks require different materials and supplies. In addition, fabric suppliers are not operating or are significantly backlogged, making establishing a steady supply chain a big challenge. In fact, because of the overwhelming response from consumers, we sold out of the guitar pattern rather quickly. We are sourcing new fabrics to continue our music-themed designs.
How is the team handling the shift in manufacturing?
This was a great initiative and mission for everyone to rally around – both at Gator and with our partners. It motivated and energized the team to be able to help in some way. So many of our partners reached out to us for personal and professional reasons. We kept hearing personal stories of people who have family or friends who are sick, working in healthcare or other essential work, but did not have access to masks. Many of our partners just want masks to keep their team members safe. There is so much need, and Gator Cases can make a difference. It’s given us something positive to focus on with all the craziness going on.
If other Members would like to get involved, is there a way in which they can help Gator Cases in their efforts?
I encourage anyone to reach out to Gator via info@gatorcases.com if they are interested in learning more or have needs that we can help with.
To learn more about the masks Gator is offering, please visit https://www.gatorcases.com/masks/ and to follow their journey on social media, visit them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @gatorcases.