One Snellville company has revamped its business model during the COVID-19 pandemic, a move that could potentially save lives and the business itself.
FAM USA is a local manufacturer of fashion and athletic apparel, located on Fountain Drive in Snellville, has supplied athletic uniforms and manufacturing needs for large- and small-scale fashion brands for more than 29 years. But once the global pandemic of COVID-19 began to reach the U.S. and the large-group athletic events FAM USA would normally supply with apparel were postponed, the leadership at FAM USA immediately began thinking of ways to switch gears and help fight the pandemic.
In less than 24 hours, FAM USA created prototypes of medical masks using a material that filters particles similar to N95 masks and fabric. FAM USA CEO Torey Rose reached out to several people in her network and was put in contact with U.S. Sen. Kelly Loeffler.
"After working with Sen. Loeffler, she helped to move forward the (Centers for Disease Control) and (Food and Drug Administration) approval of their mask prototype for emergency use," Rose said. "Over the past week our production has completely shifted to focus the majority of the work flow on creating these masks. As a small business and onshore manufacturer, FAM USA is striving to keep our staff working through the difficulties of the pandemic."
FAM USA have sold more than 3,000 masks and receives new orders every day including inquires for orders of 
35,000-plus masks.
Many medical establishments are requesting donations and the demand is great.
"It's a blessing that local manufacturing company, FAM USA in Snellville, can keep doors open and employees working, while helping to produce the much needed medical masks for hospitals in need," said Snellville Tourism and Trade Executive Director Kelly McAloon.
For more information on FAM USA's effort, email info@yssathletics.com or call at 770-982-9913.