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Made In The U.S.: A New Possibility
June 20, 2008

I've stated my optimism for my generation's influence on the global economy and environment in the past.  In the last few weeks I've noticed a few subtle, but real, changes.  I have found pieces of furniture that, a year ago, were made overseas.  These pieces are now proudly manufactured within the United States.  Guess what else... I'm also not having the quality control issues with this handful of pieces that I was having a year ago.  These pieces are few and far between but symbolize a real hope for the future of our industry.

Some manufacturers are starting to make other products in the U.S., as well.  Dr. Brown's polypropylene bottles, for instance, are made in America.  This sets their brand apart, right now, in the BPA-free bottle market.  What a brilliant marketing strategy!

On the environmental side of the coin, I've noticed that many manufacturers are beginning to add recycle numbers to their products where they weren't before (ie: Avent Magic Cups).  I think as parents become more and more aware of the difference recycling can make, they will learn to buy products that can be reused or disposed of in an eco-friendly manner.  (Recycle numbers can also be used to help identify types of plastics, though they should not be used to determine the ultimate safety of plastics.)

I'm pleased to report that, because the American public is standing up and demanding better products, manufacturers are beginning to turn their operations in a different direction.  Most everything is still made in China, but there are alternatives where a short time ago there were none.  I can't wait to see how far the market will swing into this positive direction.

Posted by Kelly Nelson on June 20, 2008 | Comments (0)