Believe it or not there is something simple that all Americans can do to help the American economy, help their fellow Americans and even help themselves. It is so simple anyone can do it - the next time you are buying something take a minute turn the box around and see where it it made. Only buy products made in the USA. But nothing is made in the USA anymore! Really, actually did you know that the USA is the world's largest exporter with 2008 exports increasing over 20% to $1.84 Trillion. And exports make up twice the portion of the US GDP they did 40 years ago. To be fair we are the world's largest importer also. What do we export? Literally everything. Boeing is the world's largest exporter but the US exports computers, electronics (up 32% in 2008), food, cars, beverage and even clothing.
But I'm not convinced - everyone knows we don't make anything in the US anymore! In our own household we have aggressively began a Made in the USA campaign. In the last year we've bought New Balance shoes which has six New England factories, Kenmore Washing Machine, Dunlop Tires, Lee Jeans and a Milwaukee Saw Zaw and more. Our tile is made in the USA. Our dogs treats are made in the USA. When I go out I buy Miller Lite or a domestic beer which of course is Made in the USA. It's really not that hard folks - and you will feel good about doing it.
But everyone knows the best cars are imports - when America builds a good car I'll buy one. The latest JD Powers survey rank Buick as the best built and highest quality car manufacturer. Buick tied with Jaguar, to be fair, and this was the first time in 14 years that Lexus was not number one. Interesting the lowest seven manufactures, hence poorest quality vehicles are all imports (Suzuki, Volkswagen, Land Rover, Isuzu, Mazda, Saab and Scion).
Bottom line: There are over 300 million Americans. If each one increased their purchases of Made in USA products $10 that is $3 Billion pumped directly into the US economy. If each increased US purchases by $100 $30 billion into the US economy. $1000 increase is a $300 Billion increase into the US economy. That is real money folks and the US Government estimates that for every 1 Billion of increased exports 20,000 jobs are created or saved. Do the math. The bottom line is that actions have consequences and there are consequences to where we chose to buy our items. COMMON CENTS gives brings you some sites dedicated to supporting Made in USA products.
2 comments:
Buy American has been big for a long time, you can Google it and find a site that lists companies that use/sell American goods.
I always check, but sometimes it's difficult to find American.
Debbie Hamilton
Right Truth
Go U.S.A.!!!
Your best post yet, Steve. FO rme, anyway.
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