Like many companies, my employer had a round of layoffs last December. By all rights, I should just take my tax refund and hoard it in case there's another round.
I didn't do that.
Many people would take the money, blow it on a vacation, and not have anything to show for it afterward.
I didn't do that either.
Instead I bought US made consumer durables. Specifically a mattress and a couch. Want details?
Latex Mattress
Manufacturer: The Original Mattress Factory.
At The Original Mattress Factory, we manufacture our own brand of mattresses and box springs that are designed to provide the best possible combination of comfort, support and durability. Better yet, we produce our mattresses and box springs in our locally owned and operated factories and sell our products direct to the consumer, ensuring that you get the best possible mattress and box spring for the very best price.
The factory is located 18 miles from my home. The showroom is about a mile away in a strip mall I'm hoping doesn't go under. Admittedly, I don't know what their labor relations are like, but at least the money stays here.
But what about the materials?
Manufacturer: Latex International
Founded over 30 years ago, Latex International (LI) is the only US-based Talalay latex foam producer and largest supplier of latex mattress components and pillows in North America. LI’s Talatech® brand latex foam is the highest quality, most resilient and consistent latex foam in the world.
Again, no clue how they treat their workers. But it's a US company with (presumably) US factories.
I realize I could have gone with an all natural mattress, and that my Talatech mattress uses materials that were likely derived from petrochemicals. That's just a cross I'm going to have to bear.
Mission Amish Mission Sofa
Retailer: Becker Furniture World
Founded in 1978 with 500 square feet of retail space, privately-owned Becker Furniture World has become one of the largest and most innovative companies in the furniture industry. In addition to the multiple furniture galleries, Becker recently partnered with the area's best category leaders making it the most complete and comprehensive Home Center in the country. Today, Becker Home Center is a spectacular home improvement destination. Whether building, remodeling, improving the look of your home, or purchasing new furniture, you can make all of your selections at Becker.
Manufacturer: Simply Amish
Today, Simply Amish furniture is still made by authentic Amish craftsmen, working on more than 50 family farms scattered throughout the heartland of America. Most are small family shops with only four or five craftsmen, while some shops might employ as many as 30 skilled workers. But regardless of the size, tradition still dictates the construction of every design. Each piece of lumber is still cut, shaped, sanded and stained by seasoned hands, using a keen eye to eliminate any imperfections and bring out the natural beauty of rich maple, solid oak and other select hardwoods.
Amish furniture shops are notorious for violating child labor laws. Also, Oak probably isn't the most sustainable material. I saw one couch that was made from plantation rubber trees that were at the end of their usefulness, and would be replanted. Went with Oak instead.
I'm not saying I made the perfect choices. But I did try to think about what I was buying, and stimulate the US economy.
So when the whole thing tanks, don't blame me.