There’s a special kind of emotion that comes with being — and buying — American. Buying American-Made products surpasses simple patriotism. Buying products that are made in the USA help contribute to a brighter and more stable future for the entire country through the support of our local businesses.
Supporting Local Businesses Strengthens our Nation Inside and Out
According to a 2015 report by Consumer Reports, 80% of American shoppers say they prefer to buy goods made in the United States. Understanding the benefits of buying products that are made in America will help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions.
Environmental Footprint
Many of the products made overseas have a significantly higher carbon footprint when compared to products made in the USA. Not only do products made overseas require the burning of fossil fuels to bring the products to the US, but they also have little to no regulations about pollution. In America, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set regulations that manufacturers are required to follow. They must do everything they can to prevent pollution and other environmental hazards from harming our planet. When people support American-made products, they know that they are contributing to help to keep the world a little cleaner.
Human Rights
When production is done overseas, we are unable to confirm the quality of working conditions for the employees making products. Countries that have weaker environmental regulations typically have weaker or no laws to protect the rights of their employees either. In the United States, government regulations protect workers from unfair working conditions or labor practices. The Fair Labor Standards Act ensures that American employees are protected from unfair labor practices. This act helps employers ensure that their employees have safe working conditions, reasonable hour limitations, and salaries that reflect their efforts. The US is one of the few countries with regulated wages. When people purchase products made in the USA, they ensure the employees who made them were treated fairly, worked safely, paid adequately.
Supporting the Local Economy
Buying local goods and services is something smaller communities preach. However, it’s not as talked about in larger cities where big box stores are overwhelmingly on every corner. It is just as important to support local businesses in larger cities because when you buy local more money stays within the community. A healthy economy is one that prospers. It thrives on its own and doesn’t require assistance from others. Buying local increases employment in the area. It builds a chain of growth and development. When American factories prosper, they are able to expand their buildings, hire more employees, and partner with other companies. Local doesn’t always mean small. When people buy American-made products, they are helping to keep money in the American community and provide opportunities for American workers.
Informing yourself about where your products came from will help you make stronger and wiser purchasing decisions. Supporting companies that outsource their production and manufacturing can have harmful ripple effects that can cause larger issues.
At Office360 we pride ourselves on being a local company that supports many American-made products. The local mindset is something our owners strive for all employees to embrace to help our economy. To find out more about our product lines that are made in the USA, contact us today.
