It’s a dreary Saturday afternoon. A light drizzle keeps the parks empty and increasing winds foreshadow impending thunderstorms. Such a bleak and gloomy day guarantees one thing, the malls will be packed with shoppers looking for a rainy day escape.  Climate controlled, featuring lush landscaping and contemporary architectural details, the modern mall is an oasis for the stressed or bored consumer seeking a dose of retail therapy. Many of us use our shopping experiences as a way to boost our mood by indulging in a new outfit, gadget or a pair of new shoes.  Now it’s time for our retail habits to get some therapy themselves.

Price, quality and durability are top considerations in making spending choices. However, one important consideration is missing, country of origin. When you check an item’s label for price, fabric type or brand, also look for the “made in” information listed. The origin of the product you choose to purchase has wide-reaching implications. When you make the decision to purchase an item from an economically recovering region, you are supporting not only the outsourcing of local jobs, but in far too many cases, the exploitation of workers in sweatshop factories, the degradation of the environment and the influx of products undergoing little or no safety inspections into our country.

The good news is, we have a choice, and the options are surprisingly plentiful. Products made in the USA  are available in many of the stores you already frequent. I have personally undertaken a challenge to find goods in mall shops which area made in the USA and blogging about my findings. As I make my way though the store directory, I am finding all kinds of hidden gems in typical stores that are American made. Buying more products made in the USA is just the beginning. The more we know about the implications of our actions, the better armed we are to become ethical consumers. Start by checking labels, asking more questions and educating yourself. Decide what sacrifices you are willing to make to stay true to your values. Consider buying more locally made, American manufactured products. It’s easier than you might think!

-Sarah, made in usa challenge