From the headlines to family dinner table conversation, one topic has a stranglehold on our attention: tariffs.
Will they be implemented? When? How much? On who? How will this impact the businesses I work with? Should I expect rising costs? How can I buy American to avoid the initial tariff-related price hikes?
These are all critical questions. While we cannot speak for the entire industry, the answer for Willoughby is simple: We have, are, and will continue to be American-made. Not only do we manufacture our fixtures in America, but we also use steel sourced from U.S. suppliers.
For some, ‘Made in the U.S.A.’ has been (and will become more common if the tariffs are implemented) a marketing tactic. To Willoughby, it is more than a tactic; it has been our identity since our founding in 1947. Whether for a prison, hospital, school, or public park, we are proud to offer fixtures made by Americans in the U.S.A. for Americans.
With a large portion of our sales coming from government or quasi-governmental entities, producing quality products is not just how we meet customer expectations. It is our responsibility to the American taxpayer to guarantee their tax dollars are being well-utilized on products engineered and built to stand the test of time, even in high-demand environments.
Those tax dollars are returned to the U.S. economy by investing in skilled American workers within our facility and along our supply chain. As we continue on our journey of U.S. manufacturing, we can visualize a not-so-distant future where America returns to the manufacturing world stage, showcasing our collective innovation, quality, attention to detail, and lifetime value.
Even with our previous and continued relationship with U.S. Steel manufacturers, some delayed results may be felt. Supply and demand basics tell us that when demand for a product increases, prices will rise without an increase in supply. If more manufacturers begin to buy American Steel, we may see an increase in prices. However, Willoughby is already investigating new and different ways to absorb these increased costs and minimize the price passed to our end customers.
Regardless of the shifts, our focus remains the same: producing products that Architects, Engineers, and Facilities Professionals have trusted for the last 78 years. You can count on us to continue to earn and build that trust, especially as we begin our 4th generation of family ownership.
When you choose Willoughby, you are choosing more than just quality—you are supporting U.S. manufacturing and its values. So, when it is time to specify plumbing fixtures, water management, or accessories on your next project, remember the true value of “Made in the U.S.A.”
Shop American. Spec Willoughby.