New York-based US Glass is in discussions with the owners of Fenton Art Glass on a deal that could restart production. Gene Bem, CE of US Glass says he aims to offer Fenton speciality glass to retailers, including Macy's and Neiman Marcus. According to Bem, the brand can be refreshed and production at the factory could restart before the end of 2012, with the goal of full production in 2013. Family-owned Fenton was built in Williamstown in 1906 and in recent years has struggled with rising costs, slowing sales and growing debt. In summer 2011, the company laid off most workers and now produces only decorative beads. According to company president, George Fenton, no final agreement has yet been reached, but he hopes it works out. In May, all the factory's moulds, tools and other asses were bought by the president of Fenton Gift Shop, a separate business entity, at a private auction for $200,000, including legal rights to logos, names, colours styles and glass compositions. "We're optimistic something really nice can come out of those discussions," Randy Fenton said. Fenton Art Glass owes over $600,000 in back taxes on its factory. George Fenton said that the company must still address its debt.
