How Car Mats Inspired My Patriotism

Posted by admin on 28th May 2015

buy american (1)As I mindlessly watched TV last night, a commercial for WeatherTech car mats caught my attention. Normally my interest is not sparked by such commodities, however, I was taken aback by the time spent marketing their ‘American-made’ products.

I laughed because I work for Flags.com; a company founded upon a Marine's love for his country.  I can understand why it makes sense for Flags.com to manufacture products in America; but why is a car mat commercial highlighting the importance of products ‘made in the USA’? Based on my place of employment, and the fact I am a United States citizen, I thought it be wise to enlighten myself on the benefits of American made products.

As it turns out, more than 60 percent of Americans indicated that they would pay 10-20 percent more for products made in the U.S.A. (Consumer Reports National Research Center).  I have noticed as the stock market continues to rise, so does our willingness to spend a little extra. What I wanted to know is: Where can we invest our extra money that supports further economic growth and our nation's future stability?

I have come to learn that there are many substantial reasons to invest in American-made products.  Here are a few points that stood out to me:

  • QUALITY

U.S. products are generally made of better quality than foreign goods.

  • ECONOMIC GROWTH

When you buy U.S. products, it means you are keeping Americans employed and in return they will have more money to spend on the goods and services you sell.

  • REGULATION

U.S. manufacturers are regulated by laws, so no one can exploit workers to unfair wages or children to labor.

  • ENVIRONMENT

The U.S. government provides incentives to businesses that incorporate green technology.

  • SUPPORT FOR LOCAL CAUSES

Many American based businesses are involved in giving back to foundations which are located in our country. Consequently, these companies create more opportunities for U.S. citizens to contribute on an individual basis.

In the fall of 2012, President Obama, through the departments of Commerce and Labor, developed the ‘Make it in America Campaign’ to encourage manufacturers to expand job opportunities through employee training programs. To emphasize just how important the contributions of manufacturers are to the health of our economy, $40 million in grants are available to those who develop innovative products and hire America’s best workforce.

If I was on the committee for the ‘Make it in America Campaign’ I would nominate WeatherTech.  My choice is based on my new found knowledge regarding manufacturers’ influence on our economy.  I can confidently attest to WeatherTech’s role in securing America’s future. Even on a personal level, I must acknowledge them for the inspiration to educate myself on an issue so foundational to the company I work for.

And as much as I love entertaining the thought of providing a company with such recognition, I must get back to marketing American-made flags with a newly discovered patriotic enthusiasm!

For more information regarding WeatherTech’s philosophy on ‘Manufacturing Done Right!’ please click the link below.

http://www.weathertech.com/assets/1/7/what_matters_to_you_1212.pdf

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By: Ashlee O'Donnell

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