Made in America
Forget outsourcing to China, India, wherever. The Made in America label is beginning to mean something again, and US consumers are enthusiastic. Shirts, suits, fashion and more, on this coming episode of the Language of Business. Airing soon!
My guests will be Bob Kidder, Melanie Berger, Ed Likovich and John Martynec and we’ll go north, south and in our studios to bring their entrepreneurial stories to life!
Bob Kidder believes in American manufacturing. So when it came time to put his money where his mouth is, in 2009 he bought the shirt factory that he used to run—the famed New England Shirt Factory in Fall River. Originally known as the Shelburne Shirt factory, the 200 year-old mill has been caught in the crossfire of multiple custody battles and its future was anything but certain. Kidder, no stranger to high-end menswear, with stints at Hahthaway and Ike Behar. Bob also owned retail stores in Boston for 25 years called Robert Todd Limited. He has made New England Shirt a success and is proud to put the label “Made in new England” on every shirt. Click here for his LinkedIn profile.
In her creative journey from concept to product manufacturing, it became evident that women needed support for both body and soul. Women want to feel good about themselves and the way they look – even after a long day. As an answer to Melanie Berger’s dream, Mariwear does just that. Mariwear Proudly manufactured in the USA, Mariwear is an innovative line of women’s apparel conceived and designed by women for women. Initially intended as lounge/sleepwear, Mariwear is quickly revolutionizing the way women dress when they want to get out of their bras yet “still feel dressed” regardless of the time of day. Here is Melanie’s LinkedIn profile.
Ed Likovich’s background spans both business and technology. The product from his current venture is named Sunsprite, which is like a Fitbit for the sun. It’s a wearable device that tracks your personal bright light and UV exposure to help you become happier and healthier. Prior to joining GoodLux Technology, he developed bond trading algorithms at JPMorgan. He holds a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Harvard, where he wrote a dissertation on novel methods of light emission and collection in semiconductors. He’s also the biggest Steelers fan in Patriots territory, but he usually keeps his Terrible Towel at home. Here is his LinkedIn profile.
John Martynec is the President of Southwick in Lawrence, MA. Since 1929, Southwick suits have been worn by presidents, ambassadors, corporate leaders and other men of distinction who choose Southwick to enhance their own style, not replace it. Southwick’s business philosophy has been firmly grounded in the singular vision of its founders – a love of quality and craftsmanship. Southwick is synonymous with authentic American style, natural shoulder comfort, quality, and fine fabrics. Click here for his company’s web site.
