MAM launches 'Made in Missouri' logo

It's all about branding. That's the latest message from Missouri Association of Manufacturers CEO Kim Inman, who, with just less than a year in the role, is overhauling MAM's look, feel and message.

Part of the statewide organization's National Manufacturing Day event, MAM took its first step toward cohesive brand synergy this morning as it unveiled its new "Made in Missouri" logo.

Available through MAM's website for download by any Missouri manufacturer, not just MAM members, a template can then be fitted with the company specific logo and used on any product made in the Show-Me State.

"This can go on shipping containers, on packaging or on the item itself," said Inman during the event in Missouri State University's Jordan Valley Innovation Center. "Red Monkey Foods manufactures Archer Farms spices for Target. Imagine walking into Target and seeing this logo on the shelf."

Inman said the goal is to develop a subconscious brand awareness both nationally and internationally.

"People know brands, they recognize brands and they are comfortable with brands," she said to the group of more than 50 assembled. "Imagine this logo stamped on a product right next to the Made in the USA logo.

"We've looked at a lot of states and nobody is doing this. New York and New Jersey have campaigns that consist of a database. This is going to be more tangible."

Inman said the association continues to work with Missouri legislators to strengthen manufacturing statewide, adding the group has "big plans" for the logo, but she couldn't disclose details until the legislation was in place within the coming year.

"The future of Missouri manufacturing is bright as costs increase overseas," said Sen. Bob Dixon, R–Springfield, at the event. "Fifty percent of manufacturers nationwide report they plan to increase U.S. production in the next five years and 75 percent report an employment shortage.

"When I look at this logo, it looks like a cross-cut of a wire. Each manufacturer in the state is a wire and a wire can't hold much, but together a cable can suspend a whole bridge. Together we can do great things, but it takes all of us."

The organization, which works on the behalf of manufactures to promote and advocate for the industry, has roughly 180 members statewide.