ABM History

In 1947 in his garage in Chicago, Illinois Arthur Schwarzberger developed a simple sewing concept for quilting machines that could crossover sewing lines. Arthur refined his concept and began manufacturing mechanical track quilting machines for the comforter, bedspread, and mattress markets. Sales started to grow, and his small company named ABM Industries began to expand.

In the early 1950’s the family basement became too small, so ABM moved to a three-story building on the south side of Chicago. It was during this time Arthur’s sons Barry and Michael, got involved in the business and helped fuel its continued growth by expanding the types of equipment manufactured and the markets they serviced. By 1960 ABM needed more manufacturing space. It was time to move again – this time to a location on Chicago’s west side. With Arthur’s untimely death, Barry and Michael assumed full responsibility for the company and continued to make it grow.

During the late 1980’s ABM expanded into computer technology and was looking for an influx of energy and new ideas. Michael’s son Neal began working for the company. Together they developed a computerized quilting machine named the XL, expanded sales and marketing efforts overseas, changed the name to ABM International, Inc., and moved to a larger facility in Niles, Illinois.

In 1995 ABM began the development of a revolutionary new vertical quilting machine called the “Robo Quilter” – the first of its kind. After the introduction of Robo Quilter to the market, in October of 1997, sales soared, and another move was required. The new facility in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, provided more space, which allowed for the assembly of up to 500 machines per year. By the end of 2003, worldwide demand for the Robo Quilter and the XL6000 was at an all-time high and to expedite shipments we had determined it was time to leave Chicago and head south to one of our nations largest shipping ports.

In March of 2003 ABM purchased its current facility and relocated to Houston, Texas. The new buildings provide ample floor space for ABM to manufacture up to 1000 quilting machines per year.

Today, ABM International is a manufacturer of quilting machines, single needle quilting machines, single head quilting machines, multi head quilting machines, multi-needle quilting machines, long arm quilting machines, filling machines, packaging machines, cutting machines, panel cutters and all related equipment to manufacture quilts, comforters, bedspreads, mattresses, sleeping bags, futons, blankets, insulation blankets, and pillows. ABM is a vertically integrated manufacturer with in-house design, engineering, welding, machining, programming, and assembly. We are committed to producing state-of-the-art machinery at cost effective prices.

ABM International has built its reputation by providing high caliber machinery and superior customer service. We have grown into a leading manufacturer worldwide with international representation in Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East. The ability to serve such a vast market has been the groundwork for our growth and success.

The engineering team at ABM International prides itself on ingenuity and continually strives to utilize the latest technologies. With our emphasis on continued development, quality control and rigorous stress and strain analysis, we have produced the highest quality quilting machines available on the market today. We are confident that after you browse through our website you will agree that ABM International is the premier machinery manufacturer in our industry today.

While you are looking through our website, please keep in mind that virtually every machine can be custom-made to fit your needs. No matter what your needs, I am confident that ABM International will exceed every expectation. We hope you will give us the opportunity to prove the superiority of our products and services.

Very Truly Yours,
Neal A. Schwarzberger
President
ABM International, Inc.