Tuesday, December 20, 2005

Buying American for Christmas

Last week, the Commerce Department announced that the U.S. trade deficit reached $68.9 billion. This is such a large number that most of us can’t really comprehend it. A significant part of the trade deficit arises from our nation’s insatiable demand for imported oil. Another component of the trade deficit, however, is consumer purchasing of imported clothing, electronics, and toys.

As we send our consumer dollars overseas, our textile mills fall silent, our furniture makers struggle, and our potteries close. Quintessential American brands--like Levi's, Singer, Lionel, Timex, and Oneida—are no longer made in the USA. What’s more, most consumers don’t seem to know or care where things are made.

StillMadeinUSA.com is my attempt to help consumers find American-made consumer products. I don’t spend a lot of time trying to convince people to buy American, but I try to make it easier to do. I also try to lead by example, so here is an update on my holiday shopping: of the total dollars spent, 84% made in USA, 9% made in Mexico, 7% made in China.

Vendor

Product Origin

BuyAmerican.com

USA

Union Jean Co.

USA

Northeast Knitting Mills

USA

TheUnionShop

USA

Hasbro Games

USA

Cardinal Games

China

JCPenney

USA

CWDKids

USA

ColumbiaKnit

USA

GC game

USA

DS game

Mexico

Skooter

China

FisherPrice

Mexico

Flying Shuttle

USA

Channel Craft

USA

Fisher Space Pens

USA



We can choose to support American companies and American workers.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Stephanie,

Products for the entire family can be found at www.zebulonUSA.com.

Apparel for men, women and children
Bags & Luggage
Toys & Games
We are also expanding our Home & Garden Department recently adding Amana Cotton Throws and various Drymate matting Products (gas grill mats, christmas tree mats, cargo liners, litter box mats etc.)

Visit us at www.zebulonUSA.com.

Paul S
Presinet/Founder