The Need for a Consumer-Friendly Manufacturer Directory
It’s Time to Tap into a Big Opportunity
At this point in time, our directory is filled with wonderful small businesses, but we’ve yet to fully tap into the potential of local manufacturers. A huge shout-out to Priia Cosmetics and Stofanak Custom Cabinetry, who have joined and truly get the mission—we appreciate you!
I understand why some manufacturers might not have joined yet. I recently attended a Chamber of Commerce meeting for manufacturers, hoping to connect with some businesses and spread the word. Instead of meeting with manufacturers like Victaulic, BBraun, Mack, Follett, Bakerly, Just Born, and Martin Guitar, I found myself shaking hands with other non-manufacturing businesses like mine. This experience helped me realize how busy manufacturers truly are—they’re focused on making things, which makes it harder for them to explore joining something new, like a local directory.
But I believe there’s a huge opportunity here. While larger manufacturers might think, “Why would we want to be in a consumer directory? We’re already well-known, and we don’t sell directly to shoppers,” I want to say: You are the big deals! And while you’re making major contributions to the Lehigh Valley economy, there’s still so much value in connecting with the local community through a directory like ours.
A Real-Life Example: Ladders and Tree Stands
Just this week, my husband, who runs Terps Whitetails, met with a gentleman who owns a company that makes box and tower blinds. The man explained how the prices for their imported ladders are skyrocketing and wondered if my husband knew of any local metal shops that could help. The two of them had a conversation about how hard it is to even find where these items are made.
It made me think—there’s a real need for a user-friendly directory for manufacturers. The opportunity is there! We need to grow this quickly, especially with potential tariffs on the horizon.
Five Reasons Why Local Manufacturers Should Join MiLV
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Reach a Wider Audience:
Our directory isn’t just for shoppers—our audience includes executives, other businesses, potential employees, and more. Many are actively seeking local goods, making our directory an excellent resource for manufacturers to get noticed. -
Demonstrate Your Support for Local Growth:
Joining our directory shows that your company is invested in the creativity, productivity, and prosperity of the Lehigh Valley. It’s also great exposure for your business. -
Make It Easy for New People to Find You:
Whether you’ve been here for decades or just moved to the region, being listed in our directory makes it easier for others to find and connect with you. Don’t let the learning curve stop potential customers—be visible! -
Celebrate the Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Economy:
The manufacturers in our area are key to the region’s success. By joining MiLV, you help celebrate the thriving economy we’re all proud of. Let’s highlight the impact you’re making! -
Support the Local Economy and the Environment:
More and more people are consciously changing their shopping habits to support local businesses. They understand the value of buying products made locally—both in terms of community support and environmental impact. By joining the directory, you’ll be part of that movement.
Building a Resource for Our Community
We’re building a community-driven resource that will evolve and grow over time. We’ve already seen its power through the smaller makers and artisans who have joined. As we expand to include manufacturers, the potential for connections and growth is limitless.
If you know of any local manufacturers who haven’t joined yet, please let them know about MiLV. Manufacturers, I’d love to connect with you! Let’s have a conversation over lunch and see how we can collaborate to make this directory the most useful, comprehensive, and celebrated directory in the country.