Made in America, right here in Georgia, is the message of the first Georgia Manufacturing Expo set for June 8 at the Gwinnett Center in Duluth.

“The purpose of the Expo is to celebrate manufacturing in Georgia, “ says Jason Moss, organizer of the Expo and founder of NetworkingMFG, a support group for  small manufacturers in Gwinnett County. 

“Most consumers, when given a choice, will buy locally manufactured goods in order to support job growth in their communities.  Companies that manufacture consumer and business products in Georgia will be featured at the Expo and many will be giving away free samples of their products,” Moss said.

Most Georgians are unaware of the broad spectrum of products made within Georgia’s borders. By showcasing Georgia-made products, organizers of the expo believe consumers will be more likely to purchase them. thereby supporting manufacturing jobs in the state.  Each family attending will receive a free directory of Georgia products to help them with their purchasing decisions.

Some of the leading consumer brands made in Georgia include:  KIA, Anheuser-Bush, Duracell, Frito-Lay, Coca-Cola, Mohawk, Club Car, Sherwin-Williams, Mars Chocolates, Kraft Foods, Honey Baked Ham, Sunny Delight, Pilgrim’s Pride, Mizuno, Bridgestone, Snyder’s Lance, Shasta Beverage, MillerCoors, Shaw, Pepsi, Nestle Purina, General Mills, Briggs & Stratton, Wrigley’s, Simmons, Solo Cups, and Tyson. 

Another goal of the Expo, Moss said, is to make manufacturing careers “cool” again for young people.  In recent years, manufacturing has suffered from a poor public image.  It is critical to the country’s economic future to promote  manufacturing as a viable and well-paying career path for America’s youth, he said.

The event is free when you pre-register online at http://www.GeorgiaManufacturingExpo.com.   

Tickets will be available at the door for $10.