While manufacturing overseas remains a lucrative endeavor, rising labor costs in some offshore markets have motivated manufacturers to open more domestic facilities to service the North American market.
This migration has not only helped grow North American manufacturing, it has also added freight to the marketplace.
Customer response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“I think there are some big benefits to bringing [manufacturing] back onshore,” says Kirk Altrichter, vice president of maintenance at Gordon Trucking and TMC general chairman. “It’s more freight to be hauled and it’s a great way to add American jobs.”
“There is quite a revival here,” adds Steve Crowley, president and CEO at VIPAR Heavy Duty, “and I think it’s a great way to support the industry.”
Rick Hoffman, vice president and partner at S&S Truck Parts, says domestic production also gives manufacturers a selling point in the marketplace.
Says Altrichter: “We would prefer something be made locally. If we have a choice, we will try to support our market here.”
Note: This is the first of a two part series on USA-made parts in the aftermarket. The first, titled “U.S.-made parts finding toe hold, again” published last week. To see that article, click here.
