Northbridge, MA – April 14, 2025 — Riverdale Mills CEO James M. Knott, Jr. has been named a Manufacturing Champion by the Worcester Business Journal (WBJ). The award honors organizations and individuals who, through the adoption of innovative technologies and bold thinking, have made significant contributions, achieved notable accomplishments, and are redefining manufacturing excellence.
“James Knott, Jr. has been a vital figure in the Central Massachusetts manufacturing industry for decades,” said WBJ editor Brad Kane said. “As the industry is on the precipice of another era of turmoil, Riverdale Mills and the region’s entire economy will benefit greatly from Jim’s thoughtful leadership and advocacy. It’s an honor to present him with WBJ’s Manufacturing Champion award.”
Measured purely by economic output, no industry holds greater significance for the region than manufacturing. Contributing approximately $6.5 billion annually—about 14% of Central Massachusetts’ total GDP—manufacturing narrowly surpasses the real estate sector (13.5%) as the region’s leading economic driver, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
“It is an honor to be recognized as a manufacturing leader in Massachusetts,” said Jim. “This recognition reflects the hard work of our talented and dedicated employees, as well as the continued support of our loyal customers who inspire us to innovate and excel every day.”
Jim has played a pivotal role in transitioning Riverdale Mills from a small start-up to an internationally recognized powerhouse. With diverse experience spanning finance, operations, and engineering, he has expanded the company’s manufacturing capabilities, diversified its product lines, strengthened community engagement, and built a strong, sustainable business model.
Previous awards include the 2020 McArthur Award for Innovation and Best Practices, the National Association of Manufacturers 2019 Manufacturing Leadership Award for Visionary Leadership, the Worcester Business Journal’s 2018 “Large Business Leader of the Year” award, and the 2016 Global Trade award from the Associated Industries of Mass. International Business Council (AIM-IBC).