Shinola Proves American Manufacturing Is Alive And Well

The company specializes in watches and leather goods growing out its retail footprint.

Back in 2011, Tom Kartsotis set out to solve a couple of different problems in one fell swoop. For starters, the good old days of American manufacturing were thought to be gone forever. Second, one of the cities that was a beacon of American ingenuity in years past had fallen on some incredibly hard times. Shinola Detroit was born soon after that, and the American luxury lifestyle brand continues to gain traction.



As the company explains on its website, it was founded on a firm belief that American manufacturing is far from dead. Exceptionally talented craftsmen are still out there, and Shinola Detroit is proving that with some specialty products that are consistently lauded for their quality.      

“Because we don't think American manufacturing ever failed for being too good. Our worst didn't come when we were at our best. It happened when we thought right was good enough. It's a tall order to return to form, but we're up for it. We’re starting with the reinvigoration of a storied American brand, and a storied American city. Because we believe in the beauty of industry. The glory of manufacturing,” the website reads in part. 

Shinola specializes in watches, bicycles and leather goods - among other items - all of which are either handcrafted or assembled on site in Detroit. Many of the more popular products in its lineup are marketed under the ‘Runwell’ brand, including the Runwell Watch and Runwell Bicycle, and the company is also becoming known for being a purveyor of quality audio products, including the signature Runwell turntable.   

“We know there’s not just history in Detroit; there is a future. It’s why we are here. Making an investment in skill, at scale. Creating a community that will thrive through excellence of craft and pride of work. Where we will reclaim the making of things that are made well. And define American luxury through American quality,” the site continues. 

Beyond the manufacturing aspect, Shinola is also growing out its retail footprint. Brick-and-mortar locations can be found in some of the larger cities in the United States, including New York City, Washington DC, Chicago and San Francisco. Internationally, Shinola products can be found in stores in London, Paris, and Berlin, among other locations. 

Add it all up, and Shinola has undergone some impressive growth since its inception. Based on the rave reviews the company’s products receive, we can only expect it to keep on growing.  

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