Manufacturing to Move to North Carolina; New Product Development and Customer Service Center to Open in Osage, Iowa
July 31, 2025 – Mount Airy, NC – Nester Hosiery, LLC, a leading U.S. manufacturer of premium socks and accessory footwear, announced today that it has acquired the majority of assets of Fox River Mills, a heritage sock manufacturer based in Osage, Iowa. Following the transaction, Fox River Mills will begin to wind down its production operations in Osage and manufacturing assets will ultimately be relocated to Nester’s headquarters in Mount Airy, North Carolina. Nester and Fox River staff are working together closely to ensure on-time delivery of product to all of Fox River’s customers throughout the transitional period.
To provide opportunities for former Fox River employees and ensure continuity for customers and retail partners, Nester Hosiery plans to open a new product development and customer service center in Osage. The company also intends to employ most of Fox River’s sales, marketing, and design staff, as Nester Hosiery expands its brand and product portfolio.
“Fox River Mills has long been a highly respected brand in American sock manufacturing, with deep technical expertise and a robust customer base,” said Kelly Nester, CEO of Nester Hosiery.
“By acquiring its assets and welcoming many of its team members, we are expanding our domestic production capabilities and preserving important industry knowledge and relationships that align with our commitment to U.S. manufacturing.”
Nester Hosiery will integrate the Fox River, Pistil, and Anywear Essentials brands into its growing lineup of socks and accessories, which includes its Farm to Feet ® brand and other private label and licensed offerings. Fox River Mills has a strong legacy of producing high-quality socks for U.S. military service members — a tradition Nester Hosiery is proud to continue with the acquisition. As an established supplier to the U.S. government, Nester will carry forward Fox River’s commitment to comfort, durability, and performance for those who serve.
“This is an exciting new chapter for Nester Hosiery and a meaningful step forward for the Fox River legacy,” Nester added.
“We are grateful to the Fox River team and the Osage community for theircollaboration and are committed to building on that foundation with integrity, innovation, and a continued focus on U.S.-made excellence.”