I’m pleased to own at least one early vintage Cross pencil in addition to some more recent but late model limited editions, and of course the thin ballpoints that were ubiquitous gifts for those of us of a certain age.
Cross pen maker seeks revival with flagship store
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The company that makes Cross pens is on a push to reinvigorate its 170-year-old brand, starting with a flagship store in the same city where it was founded and once crafted its fountain pens in a steam-powered factory.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo, left, signs a formal business citation at A.T. Cross Co.’s new flagship retail store, Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2016, in Providence, R.I. The 170-year-old maker of high-end pens recently moved its headquarters to Providence from suburban Lincoln, R.I. (AP Photo/Matt O’Brien)
A.T. Cross Co. CEO Robert Baird said Wednesday his company’s recent move from suburban Lincoln, Rhode Island, to the Foundry complex near downtown Providence is part of a broader strategy to recruit skilled workers who can market and design its high-end writing instruments.
“I wanted to be downtown because it’s a great, vibrant city,” said Baird, citing “access to talent, lifestyle for talent, and affordability” as the reasons.
fountain pen users 