DeWitt (WSYR-TV) -- With stagnant job growth, consumers are more likely to cut spending and investors are often less likely to expand their businesses. Some local vendors are trying to buck that trend with products made in Central New York.
"My business has doubled since I've been in the store and it has only been a month,” said Singer.
Susann Panek, owner of We are Made in CNY told NewsChannel 9, “The whole idea was to get other local merchants who struggle because you’re in a local business. You can’t afford a store front really.”
The We are Made in CNY store opened with 20 vendors in the Shoppingtown Mall as a temporary venture during the 2012 holiday season. The feedback was positive enough to convince Panek to open a larger store in the mall, permanently. She now oversees 50 vendors, making everything from dog biscuits to fudge and silverware art, all by local businesses trying to grow in Central New York.
The idea has piqued the interest of customers. But the long-term commitment to buying local is unpredictable.
As long as she can afford to, Antonia Marshall is willing to pay more to know where her child’s toys were made.
"I don't have to worry about lead...the toys are made cheaply in China. The quality is higher, so I don't have to worry about him putting the toys in his mouth,” said Marshall who shops locally.
The bottom line is simpler for Singer, who comes from Oswego County, with one of the highest unemployment rates in the state.
"You buy local, you are helping support the local economy. You're helping the next guy support his family,” Singer said.
