We’re Not Trained to Read Labels

I learned two things after giving my “How to Buy Made in USA” presentation at the Plaistow Public Library on August 12.

One, we’re not trained to read labels or consider where things are made. Instead, we focus on price. That’s what we’ve been trained to do. As shoppers, we love scoring a “deal” or finding something we’ve wanted for a while that’s now on sale.

We also shop for convenience. I know how easy it is to visit the big box store versus my locally owned hardware store. The big box store is located next to other big stores, so it’s easy to purchase the multiple items you may need.

Shopping tip: Start local

For my presentation. I made a list of the small businesses in town that I frequent, and brought in some of the products I’ve purchased from each one – everything from roller shades and Smart Wool socks to bird feeders and curtain rods (made by Kenny in Rhode Island).

A few of the store owners even leant me products, for which I’m grateful.

I passed the products around so people could see them — and most importantly, read the label.

Then I asked, “How many here have purchased something from a local business that was also made in the US?” Three people raised their hands; one person bought a lobster pot from Savers. “It had the made in USA sticker still on it!” she said. Awesome!

The second question: “Who here is wearing anything made in the US?” One person raised her hand.

(All hand raisers received a “Keep It Made USA” shirt for playing.)

And two, once the event was over, and I came home, I realized this is my calling — to shout from the rooftops on how to read labels and explain why, why, why it’s so important to support American manufacturing.

This is why 👇: To support American workers and to keep our families and communities strong.

Said the librarian after, “I never considered all the benefits manufacturing brings to a community. I learned quite a bit. Thank you!”

The other wonderful thing: People asked, “Where’s Rocky?” 😀 Even the librarian said people were asking if Rocky would be attendance! I said to my designer, Rachel Cunliffe, after, “If I have people asking me where my dog is, at a community presentation, I believe I have a very good life indeed.” She agreed!

A very, very good evening. I had a fantastic time and am really glad I went to all the time and effort. I now have a message and know what to do!

Full Disclosure

I’m not paid nor asked to write about products or the companies that make them. All links in this piece are FREE — meaning, they’re not sponsored or paid for.

My mission is to keep manufacturing jobs stateside and this blog is my way of giving back. We like to think a “small” choice, such as purchasing a product made in the U.S. by American workers, won’t make a difference. It does.