Bergen Upholstery recently celebrated its 74th year in the transportation refurbishing business. Founded in 1946, this New Jersey-based supplier of seating covers and parts is recognized as the leader in the US motor coach and rail car replacement seating market.
The company was founded by Joseph Pokotilow, who learned the upholstery trade from his father, Benjamin. Family lore describes Benjamin, who was born in Russia, as the harness maker and carriage upholsterer to Tsar Nicholas II, before he immigrated to the US. Joseph's entrepreneurial spirit and smart executive decisions allowed the company to grow from modest beginnings in a storefront to a staff of 20 and a 13,000 square foot facility.
Nancy Pokotilow Citti, Joseph's daughter, joined Bergen in 1984 as a sales associate. Working alongside her father allowed for a seamless transition. In 1995, upon Joseph's retirement, she became President. Today, she continues to strive for excellence in quality and superior customer service that are Bergen's trademarks.
Bergen Upholstery recently received the contract to produce driver barrier curtains (
see image) for all MTA NY MCI and Prevost coaches. The cost is $130 each. This product was
featured during a recent news report highlighting protection for drivers.
They also have been supplying a barrier to private operators to use on MCIs, Prevost and VanHool coaches (
see image). The cost is $85-$100 each.
