It's no secret when it comes to Amazon; we are either blissfully adding things to our carts, or acutely aware of the ethical issues that the company represents. From an Ethical Consumer stand point Amazon is one of the world's largest retailers, generating huge revenues, but also paying very little corporation tax by funnelling its money through a holding company. Besides some business ethics, there are other issues to consider such as climate change, environmental reporting, habitats, pollutions and toxics, human rights, worker's rights, supply chain management, animal rights and more. The company was also assessed as having huge company wide issues with fair pay for workers. So why is the team at #clutchmadefactory so set on emphasising that we are not Amazon? Keep reading below to find out.
Firstly, there are huge differences between ordering a product online versus making one on your own. The American made development process could not be more different to that of Amazon's. Consumers and designers have to understand that shopping locally and making locally takes longer than ordering something from Amazon and having it at your door the next day. Why? Because making locally is a process. But it's a good process with many benefits to the broader community and economy. When you decide to set out on your journey as a designer who wants to make in the USA there are a few things to consider. The process takes time, you have to work with your factory as a team, you have to understand the quantity of small businesses that are making, and you have to have patience and trust in the process.
When you start working with the team at #clutchmade we aren't promising a tech pack or sample to be made overnight. Because unlike mass produced items overseas that are often manufactured unethically and unsustainably, we have a team of local artisans and craftspeople who want to focus their time and energy into creating the best possible outcome for you and your brand. So things take time. When we create samples or produce in our factory, all of the process is like a group of moving parts. We are coordinating our team with all of the sourcing you need from other businesses, pattern making, sample making and eventually manufacturing alongside any other branding or services you may need. This is a lot of team work, communication and coordination, meaning it takes longer to develop product than to just order from retail.
So if you're thinking of buying locally or making in the USA, just remember we aren't Amazon the retailer. The time, effort and craft that goes into the process is so worth it for sustainable, ethical, high-quality products that last a lifetime and contribute to small businesses, our community and our US economy.
If you're looking to start up your brand or take your side hustle from hobby to business, check out our November bundle promotion. It's also the perfect gift for the designer in your life. For the month of November only, receive our Online Course and Design Consult for just $285, valued at $375! You'll learn and receive all of the resources and tools you'll need to start creating marketable accessories in the USA and have an hour long consult with our team to start the process of making in the USA and building your brand. Click HERE to find out more!
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