Manufacturing: If You Can Make It Here, Don’t Make It Anywhere Else

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In a world flooded with cheap imports and overseas production, many people are surprised to hear that some companies still proudly manufacture their products 100% in the United States. One such company is Liberty Tabletop, the only manufacturer of flatware in the United States, located in Sherrill, New York — right in the heart of American manufacturing.

While the “Made in the USA” label was once seen as a nice marketing slogan, today it represents something far more significant. For companies like Liberty Tabletop, manufacturing in America isn’t just about patriotism — it’s a business advantage, a commitment to quality, and a roadmap for a stronger future economy.

As Gen Z steps into the workforce, and as trade schools train the next generation of makers, the conversation around American manufacturing, insourcing, and reshoring has never been more relevant.

Let’s explore why American manufacturing matters more than ever — not just for businesses, but for our economy, environment, workforce, and communities.

1️⃣ Speed: American Manufacturing Wins the Race

When you order a product from overseas, you might wait weeks for it to arrive. Shipping from Asia, for example, often takes 3-6 weeks — and that’s if everything goes smoothly. In contrast, Liberty Tabletop controls its entire manufacturing process right here in New York State, dramatically reducing wait times.

For today’s consumer — particularly Gen Z — who expects instant gratification, fast delivery isn’t a luxury; it’s a requirement. By producing locally, American manufacturers like Liberty Tabletop can meet customer expectations, provide quicker turnaround times, and reduce lost sales due to delays.

Key Takeaway:

Insourcing and reshoring reduce lead times, strengthen supply chains, and deliver products faster — a major competitive edge in today’s on-demand economy.

2️⃣ Quality Control: Hands-On, Precision Manufacturing

When manufacturing happens overseas, companies often rely on email updates, sample shipments, and middlemen to monitor product quality. Even the most reliable foreign factories can produce inconsistent results.

By manufacturing exclusively in the USA, Liberty Tabletop closely monitors every step of production — from raw material sourcing to final polishing and packaging. Their stainless steel flatware meets strict quality and safety standards, ensuring that each piece meets customer expectations.

This level of quality assurance builds trust with customers and inspires brand loyalty. In industries where food safety and product durability matter — like flatware — domestic production becomes essential.

“We are proud to oversee every phase of production, ensuring every fork, knife, and spoon is crafted with care and precision,” says the Liberty Tabletop team.

Key Takeaway:

American-made means better quality control, improved customization, and happier customers.

3️⃣ Inventory: Less Stock, Less Risk, More Flexibility

One of the hidden benefits of domestic manufacturing is the ability to run lean. Instead of producing massive quantities overseas months in advance (and gambling on what will sell), companies like Liberty Tabletop can adjust production based on real-time demand.

This approach minimizes inventory storage costs, reduces financial risk, and eliminates waste. In a consumer market where trends shift quickly, being nimble is crucial — especially for small businesses and emerging brands.

For Gen Z entrepreneurs, makers, and small businesses starting out, this lean manufacturing model offers the flexibility to grow sustainably, without burdensome warehouse costs.

Key Takeaway:

Just-in-time production keeps cash flow healthy, reduces overstock, and prevents markdowns.

4️⃣ Environmental Responsibility: A Cleaner Supply Chain

Sustainability matters deeply to Gen Z. A Nielsen study shows that 73% of Gen Z consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products.

When products are manufactured overseas, it’s often difficult to verify the use of safe materials, ethical labor, or eco-friendly processes. In contrast, Liberty Tabletop’s U.S.-based production allows for full transparency — ensuring safe materials, fair labor, and environmentally responsible practices.

Liberty Tabletop uses 18/10 stainless steel that is fully traceable, free of toxic chemicals, and 100% recyclable, ensuring their products are safe for families and the environment. By producing locally, they also dramatically reduce the carbon footprint tied to overseas shipping and long-distance supply chains.

Key Takeaway:

Made in USA equals greater transparency, safer materials, and a smaller carbon footprint.

5️⃣ Reshoring: Bringing Manufacturing Back Home

After decades of offshoring, the U.S. is experiencing a powerful reshoring movement. From semiconductors to flatware, companies are bringing manufacturing back home to improve supply chain resilience.

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed just how fragile global supply chains can be. Shipping delays, product shortages, and skyrocketing costs forced many businesses to rethink their dependence on foreign production.

By investing in American manufacturing, companies like Liberty Tabletop create stable jobs, strengthen economic security, and protect consumers from global disruptions.

According to the Reshoring Initiative, over 350,000 jobs were reshored to the U.S. in 2023 alone, the highest in recorded history.

6️⃣ Skills Gap: The Opportunity for Trade Schools and Gen Z

America is facing a significant skills gap in manufacturing. Deloitte reports that 2.1 million manufacturing jobs may go unfilled by 2030 due to a shortage of trained workers.

This gap presents an enormous opportunity for Gen Z, trade schools, and makers.

Modern American manufacturing is highly advanced, involving robotics, automation, precision machining, and sustainable production processes. Trade schools and certification programs are critical in preparing young workers for these high-paying, high-skill careers.

Programs like USA Certified and Certified USA help maintain high industry standards while ensuring customers that the products they buy meet strict American labor and environmental guidelines.

Key Takeaway:

The future of American manufacturing depends on educating and empowering the next generation of skilled workers.

7️⃣ Patriotism Meets Profit: Why Buying American Matters

For many consumers, choosing American Made products is more than just patriotic — it’s smart economics.

When we Buy American, we:

• Support local businesses like Liberty Tabletop
• Create good-paying jobs
• Strengthen communities 
• Boost tax revenues for education, infrastructure, and healthcare 
• Reduce national dependence on unstable foreign suppliers 

In today’s uncertain world, strong domestic manufacturing isn’t just good for business — it’s critical for national security and long-term economic resilience.

8️⃣ Small Businesses Lead the Charge

The Made in America Movement isn’t just driven by large corporations. Many small businesses, makers, and entrepreneurs are leading the charge.

Liberty Tabletop — founded by former Oneida employees — proves that small businesses can thrive by prioritizing local production, superior craftsmanship, and American values.

Whether it’s flatware, textiles, 3D printing, or custom woodworking, these businesses show that Made in America is both possible and profitable.

9️⃣ The Call to Action: How You Can Support American Manufacturing

Whether you’re a Gen Z student, a small business owner, a policymaker, or a conscious consumer, you have the power to strengthen American manufacturing:

• Buy American-made products whenever possible 
• Support small businesses and makers in your local community 
• Promote trade school education as a smart alternative to traditional college paths 
• Advocate for reshoring-friendly policies that bring jobs back home 
• Spread awareness about the importance of building strong domestic supply chains 

The Future Is American Made

American manufacturing isn’t a relic of the past — it’s the key to our future. For Gen Z, trade schools, small businesses, and policymakers, Made in America represents innovation, opportunity, and resilience.

When you support domestic production, you’re not just buying a fork or spoon — you’re investing in your community, protecting the environment, and building a stronger America.