In the 20th Century, the manufacturing industry in America was strong and thriving. Our manufacturing sector made everything that consumers needed: cars, food, clothes, toys, books, furniture, etc. It employed millions of people and helped bring about the rise of the middle class. Unfortunately, overseas operations offered cheaper wages and lower operating costs to make goods. America’s manufacturing industry declined.
Although we were able to buy products cheaper, we found that those products didn’t meet the same quality standards as the products that were once made here. All of our stuff seemed to become disposable: just buy something new when the old one failed. But, a sense of identity is starting to return to America as shoppers are becoming more aware of a product’s origins and as manufacturers start offering more American-made products.
The lower energy costs here at home and the rising wages of overseas workers make it the perfect time for “reshoring.” This growing trend boosts our economy in more ways than just profits from sales. The increases in manufacturing add jobs across many sectors: from machine makers, to supply chain, to technical support. Increasing manufacturing boosts the industry and the economy exponentially.
Carrying the Made in the USA label is a new draw for shoppers. Consumers have cited patriotism, the economy, and quality as reasons why they would choose American over foreign products. Most feel that the quality of American made goods is higher and that they will last longer. A recent survey found that 81% believe that buying American will help the economy. They are right.
As manufacturing makes a comeback, the quality standards that we once valued are making a comeback too. America’s long standing tradition of manufacturing is once again in the minds of American consumers and they understand the importance of buying American.
