I receive many reports from people regarding the way labels list "distributed by" and downplay where the products are actually being made.
For years products made in the U.S.A. clearly listed the brand name and where it was made. Today, because such a large percentage of brand name items are made overseas, the label now lists "distributed by" with the name of the American businesses' headquarters in large print. But when you look closely at the small print, you will see in which country the product was produced.
Because major corporations want to deflect attention from where products are made, I urge you to cut to the chase and walk right over to the store clerk and ask them to assist you by pointing out the selections of the American made products you're seeking to purchase. These days many store personnel try to avoid the issue, but it is important for you to ask for their assistance and make sure they know of your desire to support American made products.
As you look closely at the items available, you will see in most cases that 90% are foreign made. How can we turn this number around? How can we get businesses to restore modern industries in the U.S.A that will produce quality products and be competitively priced? These issues must be addressed by elected and business leaders who can create a more desirable business environment in the U.S.A. In fact, American made products must become as competitive as the products outsourced overseas and taxes and tariffs must be reviewed to keep products competitive. From what I see, our way to get things back on track is to keep the inventory of American made products moving off store shelves. We also have to make sure political leaders and business owners know we're supporting American made products all the way.
As discussed in past commentaries, a large portion of the American brand name products now made in foreign countries look the same on the store shelves and people believe that they’re paying less for the items, but the fact of the matter is the price you're paying in U.S. stores is comparable to what you would pay if those products were produced in the U.S.A. There is one major difference, production jobs that could be employing American workers are now located in foreign countries. As America's consumers, we permitted this imbalance to happen by not focusing a larger portion of our purchasing power on products made in the U.S.A. Now that we see the picture clearly, we have to work together to reverse the situation. The American people supported the well-being of the world for many years. Now we have to look out for the well-being of America and its economy.
This is Michael Blichasz and I always appreciate receiving your comments and suggestions. Send them to me from the email link on the front page of AmericanWorkersNeedYou.com. When you visit the site you will find many special links highlighting the need for us to support American workers and the businesses that employ them. You can also contact me at: MichaelSupportsAmerica.com.
