How important are those words to you? They are certainly very important to me.
When I started this company, there were only a handful of knife companies in existence. And of those companies, few were actual manufacturers who made their own knives here in the USA. And of those remaining companies, even fewer were 100% made in America because they farmed out portions of their work or had parts fabricated overseas.
So when I started my company, it was my intention to do everything ourselves right here in my factory. I wanted to be able to honestly say Emerson Knives are 100% made in America. I even went as far as only buying hardware and materials that were from companies who also had their products 100% made in America.
Since I started this company almost 25 years ago, many knife companies have come and gone, and of the ones that are still around, almost all of them either have their knives, parts for their knives, or their materials made overseas.
I was told by many "wise" mentors and peers, "Ernest, it's the only way to make a profit. You'll never survive unless you go overseas."
Well, we didn't, and we are still able to say Emerson Knives are 100% made in America. We always have been, we still are, and we always will be. I’ll admit it's been tough but then, I've never backed down from a fight.
You have supported us all these years and you have put your faith in us. That’s why we do what we do. I will never forget that.
The words "Made in America" aren't just important to me. They are everything to me. Thank you for being there with us through thick and thin, and thank you for supporting all "American made" companies along the way. I know I can say this for all of them. Made in America means a lot to all of us, and I know it means a lot to you, too.
Buy veteran-owned, and always buy American!
My Best Regards,
Ernest Emerson
