by GloveGypsy » October 26th, 2008, 8:23 am
My comments about Nokona:
I view the company as an important part of Americana that makes a great product for an American sport. Yes, it's true that economics and globalization mandate companies to pursue manufacturing options in overseas labor markets, but Nokona has resisted that trend and sought a more creative and courageous solution to make their profit margins.
As a country, we have become so accepting of imported products: Electronics, oil, automobiles etc. It wouldn't surprise me to learn that we are outsourcing our military and national defense to the Chinese because they have umpteen billion people and can provide our defense at a reduced labor cost........just kidding, but you get the point, not everything needs to be outsourced.
Given that Nokona will then not be able to compete on price alone, it is very important to supply exceptional customer service, to make the whole customer experience positive. Look at WW11, and how thrilled she is with her glove. She absolutely cherishes it, and for good reason. It is a powerful emotional connection that she has made with that leather hide that was handcrafted into an expression of herself....an identity as both a ballplayer and collector.
I bet WW11 watches Dodger games on TV with that Nokona AMG-175BF on her lap.
I have had nothing but positive dealings with the fine people of Nocona, Texas. They would have to screw up in a huge manner to turn me away as a customer. I even appreciate the Texas accents when I have had to contact them.....there is an earnestness and humbleness that comes right through the phone, and I find that very reassuring.
Good luck to them in the expansion of their business to manufacture in other parts of the country. If they preserve their Texas roots and values, they should prosper.
-Glove Gypsy