What do Red Wing Shoes, Woolrich and Penguin brand have in common? They are Minnesota labels that are suddenly hot! It seems the recent economic downturn has inspired consumers to consider classic, quality brands from century-old companies, many located right here in Minnesota. Proclaimed “Heritage” brands by the fashion industry, Minnesota companies such as Red Wing Shoes, Duluth Pack and St. Paul bag manufacturer J.W. Hulme are experiencing a vibrant surge in popularity.
Recently boutique department store Barneys in New York placed an order with J.W. Hulme for more than 30 Barney’s stores nationwide. Business has been so good for the St. Paul firm that they have hired back 22 employees and expanded their manufacturing to the once empty lower level.
It seems there is demand from both loyal older customers and younger people to buy products “Made in the U.S.A.” from local companies offering quality, classic styles that are suddenly hip. So slip on your Minnesota Moccasins and pull your computer out of your Duluth Pack bag you purchased at Urban Outfitters and read more about local “Heritage” brands and the celebrities wearing them in a recent Pioneer Press article. Who says Minnesota isn’t cool? – Especially in January.
