Though China produces some of the parts, Little Tikes Cozy Coupe (the toy car for toddlers) is manufactured in Hudson, Ohio. The founder of Little Tikes, Thomas Murdough Jr., originally started the company in Ohio in 1969, and it was one of the first plastic toy cars sold in the United States.
It was considered The Best Selling Car” for more than a decade, leaving Honda Accord behind. The fact that the company remains in the USA over 50 years later is truly remarkable, considering how many companies have factories overseas. The Little Tikes website even features a section devoted to their toys that are made in America.
Made Overseas: Barbie Dolls
Barbie dolls are some of the most iconic toys not only in America but across the globe. The dolls were originally conceptualized by Ruth Handler to be a 3-D version of a paper doll. Today, the Barbie doll has come a long way from the simple fashion doll.
Now, Barbie dolls are doctors, scientists, athletes, and businesswomen who represent the “American dream” for many young girls. But these “American dream” dolls were never made in America. They were first manufactured in Japan in 1959. And today, being owned by outsourcing giant Mattel, Barbies are made in Chinese, Malaysian, and Indonesian factories.
Made Overseas: Radio Flyer
The cherry-red Radio Flyer Wagon has become a symbol of an idyllic childhood in America. Radio Flyer wagons were originally made in Chicago, but after the company changed their materials from the original metal to lighter, cheaper plastic, they began outsourcing and began to produce out of the country.
The Chicago factory could not create the plastic parts, so in 2004, the company turned to none other than China. Today, though some of Radio Flyer’s products are still made in the Midwestern U.S., around two-thirds are made in China. Amongst other products, Red Flyer also produces scooters, tricycles, and ride-on.
Made in the USA: Pyrex Glassware
Pyrex glassware is known to be a versatile and aesthetic way to prepare, bake, and store food in the kitchen. The Pyrex brand features a variety of products, from measuring cups to mixing bowls, and has been a staple in American kitchens since its founding in 1915.
As it turns out, the actual glass Pyrex uses is unique, which differentiates this line of products from all others. The sturdy glassware is actually made in Corning, New York, and in Charleroi, Pennsylvania. So you can bake your next casserole with full confidence that your Pyrex glassware was made in the USA.
Made in the USA: Zippo Lighters
Zippo lighters were first manufactured in 1933 in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and have even become collector’s items today. They first became popular during World War II, representing the steely grit of the US Military. The good news is that Zippo is still made in the USA.
Another interesting fact is that the company also provides jobs to inmates (who assemble the lighters) while they are serving their time. It is known as "the windproof" lighter, meaning the flame will keep on going even under the worst weather conditions. One fault through, it's almost impossible to simply blow out the flame. For every benefit, there is a price to pay.