Paula Wolf
Section: Cope
Global Now: Abstract
Headline: Made in America: Domestic Sourcing on the Rise
Date: 9/5/2012
Source: WWD
Abstract:
Image of a Fessler knitting machine available in the United States. The faster more efficient machines are part of why there is more interest in American Production.
Looking through the business section of Women’s Wear Daily a few words got my attention that I did not think I would ever see, “Domestic sourcing on the rise.” With my assumption of cheap labor becoming even more readily available in China, I had put Made in the U.S.A in the dying market category. It is true that Chinese labor is still very cost effective, However, with the recession, higher labor rates in Asia and technological advancements in the U.S., the surprising new development does not seem as out of reach as one might think. With the new market and the need to maintain the replenishment of stores, American brands have turned to high-quality and low risk American production companies. At the moment interest is only from smaller American brands, but with labor laws changing in China, many believe the larger companies will be forced to move some of their production locally. As stated in the article, “David Sasso, vice president of international sales at Buhler, said the revival of interest in Made in USA ‘is definitely real, but the question is, ‘‘is it sustainable and how will it evolve?’’” This is a question to consider. The article explains production will never get back to the hey-day in the 50s and 60s, but I am left wondering if this may contribute to new jobs and permanent roots in American manufacturing or if China will gain access to the new technology and this is simply a passing phase. In class we discussed sustainability, environment, and community; I think this issue addresses all three.
Global Issue: domestic sourcing
Primary Design Lens: Fashion Design
Secondary Design Lens: Marketing
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