Image source: American Mug and Stein
Last week I read an NPR article about how Starbucks is supporting an Ohio-based mug maker, American Mug and Stein instead of purchasing their mugs overseas. It really made me happy to hear that a company of Starbucks’ stature is buying USA made promotional items and making a huge difference to a small town pottery business and the city of East Liverpool, Ohio.
American Mug and Stein was on the verge of shutting down, when unexpectedly they received their largest order to date from Starbucks.
They were contracted to make the Indivisible Mug which sells for $10 in Starbucks stores. As a result, they have doubled their workforce to fulfill their continued contract. Their website has been updated with the announcement, “Thanks for all your support! The mugs are selling as fast as we can make them! If you want to continue supporting us and made in the USA Products continue shopping at Starbucks. Get a Starbucks Gift Cards for $25 and keep an eye out for the return of our mugs!” It is inspiring to see a large company creating a life-changing opportunity for a small business and its employees.
Here at Pinnacle we have partnered with many US suppliers to provide you with American made promotional products. You can shop our Made In the USA category on our website to find products and apparel to promote your business or organization. Bonus is that you can feel good knowing you’re supporting our economy and other small businesses like American Mug and Stein.
Cause Marketing has been a popular concept in recent years and many organizations from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies are participating. Have you seen other examples of businesses supporting a cause or issue? Does it make you more eager to purchase from them? We’d love to hear from you!