As the Fourth of July fills our eyes with stars and stripes, it’s a great time to take a look at American-made promo apparel, from classic tees to custom PJ pants.
The demand for products made in the USA has grown in popularity over the past few years because of the supply chain problems, embargoes with China and other issues. Although USA-made apparel is less plentiful and often comes at a higher price point than imported garments, interest is growing for reasons that range from wanting to support American manufacturing to sustainability concerns.
Lauren Smith, brand merchandiser for Boundless, a distributor based in Austin, Texas, says she’s definitely seeing demand for USA-made promo goods and apparel.
“Some of these buyers now are in the Gen Z demographic, and they are so into knowing where their products are coming from and how they’re made. That’s really important for them,” she says. “With a lot of people wanting to have a better economy and planet Earth and all of that, it’s always nice to support our American-made businesses and to support that job growth. And there are really good companies out there that are making really high-quality products, so I think whenever we can recommend an American-made item, we definitely will.”
Sustainability is a stealth benefit of American-made goods that may resonate even more with your clients and their end users. Less transit time means less emissions – and potentially shorter lead times.
In May, Taylor Borst, director of marketing, events and public relations for Minnesota-based distributor American Solutions for Business, did a presentation for a PromoCorner “Made in the USA” virtual show in which she highlighted the potential benefits of sourcing promo products close to home.
“Ultimately, products that are sourced and shipped domestically require much less gas, much less energy to get it stateside, essentially,” she said, “so that results in a smaller carbon footprint.”
American-made goods offer a higher perceived value, too. Consumer surveys show 9 of 10 consumers have a favorable view of products made in the USA and say they would feel good about wearing clothes made with U.S.-grown cotton.
READ MORE:
- Sustainability Sells: 3 Distributors Tell Us Why They Emphasize Eco-friendly Promo
- Final Report: Sustainability Surges In 2022 PPAI Sales Volume Estimate
Borst noted that over half of American consumers feel more favorable about an organization that gives them a promo product made in the USA, especially one that’s locally sourced, so check with PPAI or your regional association for nearby suppliers.
“It’s always a great message when you can say that you are supporting local,” she added, especially for distributors who are servicing small businesses with local clientele.
Here are just a few of the available options for American-made promo apparel:
This Unisex Made in the USA Jersey Short Sleeve Tee checks all the boxes, with sweatshop-free and eco-friendly operations. It’s made in America from 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton and available in 12 colors (red shown) and sizes XS-5X.
BELLA+CANVAS / PPAI 304892, S6
The heavyweight Volunteer Knitwear All-American Long Sleeve Tee is made in one of the last great textile mills in America with a bit of grit, tough enough to be worn everywhere. Cotton or cotton/poly blend, depending on color. Available in eight colors (true royal shown) and sizes S-4X.
SanMar / PPAI 110788, S16
You can’t go wrong with a hoodie, and this cotton/poly blend Made in USA Unisex Pullover Hoodie features the classic front kangaroo pocket and a double lined hood with matching drawstrings. Available in 18 colors (cardinal shown) and sizes S-6XL.
Bayside Made in America / PPAI 213725, S4
Trucker hats, redolent of Americana, remain the most popular headwear. This Classic Caps USA-Made Trucker Cap features a pre-curved visor with contrast stitching and a performance sweatband. Available in 10 color combinations (navy/white shown).
S&S Activewear / PPAI 256121, S12
These lightweight Allover Print Lounge Pants, made in the USA of soft poly/spandex jersey, feature a full-color sublimated print for lounging in style. Available in sizes S-2X.
FPS Apparel / PPAI 273314, S3
