Manufacturing Revival Radio is a Dreamland Radio production with hosts Todd Schnick and Todd Youngblood. On this show, we feature the companies, the leaders, the innovators leading the charge and driving the innovation. Through the blood, sweat, and tears of working men and women from here at home, to around the world. Learn more at Manufacturing Revival Radio.

It was a pleasure to welcome Doug Tingle to Manufacturing Revival Radio! Doug is the co-founder and vice chairman of the board of managers of 1888 Mills.

1888 Mills is a leading global manufacturer of home and commercial textiles catering to the retail, hospitality and healthcare markets worldwide. They are also proud to operate the largest remaining towel mill in the U.S.

Some highlights from the conversation:

1. Doug shares the story of how the company was founded, the significance of the name 1888 Mills, as well as a rundown of their products and the markets they serve.

2. When everyone was off-shoring, 1888 Mills launched and manufactured here. Doug explains the advantages of why.

3. Doug describes a major new initiative from Wal-Mart, a “Made in the USA” campaign.

4. We discuss the innovation, technology and automation in their work, as well as the need for skilled labor.

5. Despite 1888 Mills’ commitment to local manufacturing, they are a global organization, and we discuss the impacts of their global reach.

6. We discuss the critical distinction between real initiatives to invest in “buying American,” verses just waving the flag and pretending to be patriotic.

7. Doug lists all the factors that must be considered when making up the price of production and manufacturing, to help us better understand the costs of global verses locally produced.

8. We discuss the impacts of regulation, corporate tax policy, and our educational system as potential roadblocks in the further revitalization of U.S. manufacturing.  This ties into a discussion on how to become more competitive in global trade.

9. Doug shares the value of associations such as today’s sponsor, the Georgia Association of Manufacturing.

Click on the play button above to listen to the interview, or download the audio file at Manufacturing Revival Radio.