Where Are New Balance Shoes Made? Unveiling Global Factories

New Balance shoes are made in several locations around the world. A portion of their shoes are proudly made in the United States, while others are manufactured in countries like Vietnam, China, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom. This global manufacturing strategy allows New Balance to cater to diverse markets and maintain competitive pricing. Let’s delve deeper into the New Balance shoe origin and explore the various New Balance factories that contribute to the brand’s global presence.

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The Landscape of New Balance Global Manufacturing

New Balance is one of the few major athletic shoe companies that still maintains some production in the United States. This commitment to domestic manufacturing sets them apart and appeals to consumers who value “Made in USA” products. However, to meet global demand and offer a range of price points, New Balance also relies on a network of international factories. This combination of domestic and international production shapes the New Balance supply chain and impacts the availability and pricing of their products.

New Balance USA Made: A Point of Pride

The “Made in USA” label holds significant weight for many consumers. For New Balance, it signifies a commitment to American jobs, craftsmanship, and quality. But what exactly does “Made in USA” mean in the context of New Balance?

What Constitutes “Made in USA” for New Balance?

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) standards, a product can be labeled “Made in USA” if it is “all or virtually all” made in the United States. For New Balance, this means that at least 70% of the shoe’s value must originate from U.S. sources, including materials and labor.

New Balance Manufacturing Locations in the USA

New Balance operates several New Balance production sites in the United States, primarily in New England. These factories are located in:

• Skowhegan, Maine: This is one of New Balance’s largest and most important factories in the US.
• Norridgewock, Maine: Another key manufacturing location in Maine.
• Boston, Massachusetts: The headquarters of New Balance also houses a factory that produces specialized and custom-made shoes.
• Lawrence, Massachusetts: A significant location for athletic shoe production.

These New Balance factories contribute significantly to the brand’s “Made in USA” collection, which includes popular models like the 990 series, the 996, and the 998. Buying a “Made in USA” New Balance shoe supports American workers and contributes to the local economy.

The Allure and Impact of New Balance USA Made

Choosing a “Made in USA” New Balance shoe can have several benefits:

• Supporting American Jobs: Purchasing products made in the USA helps create and sustain jobs for American workers.
• High-Quality Craftsmanship: New Balance’s American factories are known for their skilled workforce and attention to detail, resulting in high-quality shoes.
• Reduced Environmental Impact: Manufacturing closer to home can reduce transportation costs and the associated environmental impact.
• Ethical Labor Practices: The United States has strong labor laws and regulations, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions.

New Balance Global Footprint: Overseas New Balance Factories

While New Balance is committed to its American manufacturing, it also relies on a global network of factories to meet the demands of the international market. These New Balance manufacturing locations are crucial for producing a wider range of styles at various price points.

Key Countries Where New Balance Shoes Are Produced

The primary countries where New Balance shoes are produced outside the United States include:

• Vietnam: A major hub for athletic shoe production due to its skilled workforce and competitive labor costs.
• China: Historically a significant manufacturing location, although production is shifting to other countries.
• Indonesia: Another key player in athletic shoe manufacturing, offering a balance of cost and quality.
• United Kingdom: New Balance has a factory in Flimby, Cumbria, that produces premium shoes for the European market.

The Role of New Balance Sourcing in Overseas Production

New Balance sourcing strategy involves careful selection and management of its international factories. The company works closely with its suppliers to ensure they meet its standards for quality, ethical labor practices, and environmental responsibility. Regular audits and assessments are conducted to monitor compliance and identify areas for improvement.

A Comparison of Production Standards: USA vs. Overseas

While New Balance strives to maintain high standards across its entire supply chain, there are inherent differences in production standards between its US and overseas factories.

Feature	USA	Overseas
Labor Standards	Stringent US labor laws and regulations	Subject to local labor laws and New Balance standards
Wages	Higher wages aligned with US standards	Generally lower wages than in the US
Environmental Regulations	Strict environmental regulations	Varying levels of environmental regulations
Quality Control	High levels of quality control	Robust quality control measures in place

It’s important to note that New Balance is committed to ethically made New Balance shoes, regardless of where they are produced. The company has a comprehensive code of conduct that outlines its expectations for suppliers regarding labor rights, health and safety, and environmental protection.

Deciphering the Shoe Label: How to Find the New Balance Shoe Origin

Determining where your New Balance shoes were made is relatively straightforward. The information is typically found on the shoe’s label, usually located on the tongue or inside the shoe.

Reading the Label: Identifying the Country of Origin

The label will clearly state the country where the shoe was manufactured. Look for phrases like “Made in USA,” “Made in Vietnam,” or “Made in China.” This information provides insight into the shoe’s origin and the associated production standards.

Model Numbers and Their Significance

Different New Balance models are often associated with specific manufacturing locations. For example, the 990 series is primarily made in the USA, while other models may be produced overseas. Researching the model number can give you a clue as to where the shoe was likely manufactured.

Ethical Considerations and New Balance Sourcing

In today’s world, consumers are increasingly concerned about the ethical implications of their purchasing decisions. New Balance recognizes this and has taken steps to promote ethical and sustainable practices throughout its supply chain.

New Balance’s Commitment to Ethical Labor Practices

New Balance has a comprehensive code of conduct for its suppliers that addresses key issues such as:

• Fair Wages: Suppliers are expected to pay fair wages that meet or exceed local legal requirements.
• Safe Working Conditions: Factories must provide a safe and healthy working environment for their employees.
• Freedom of Association: Workers have the right to form and join trade unions.
• No Child Labor: The use of child labor is strictly prohibited.
• No Forced Labor: Forced or compulsory labor is not tolerated.

Environmental Stewardship in New Balance Global Manufacturing

New Balance is also committed to minimizing its environmental impact. The company has implemented various initiatives to reduce waste, conserve energy, and promote the use of sustainable materials. These include:

• Reducing Water Consumption: Implementing water-saving technologies in its factories.
• Using Recycled Materials: Incorporating recycled materials into its shoes and packaging.
• Reducing Carbon Emissions: Investing in energy-efficient technologies and promoting sustainable transportation.
• Waste Management: Implementing waste reduction and recycling programs in its factories.

Transparency and Accountability in the New Balance Supply Chain

New Balance is working to increase transparency in its supply chain by disclosing information about its suppliers and their performance. The company also conducts regular audits and assessments to monitor compliance and identify areas for improvement. This commitment to transparency helps consumers make informed decisions about the products they buy.

The Future of New Balance Production Sites

The landscape of global manufacturing is constantly evolving, and New Balance is adapting to these changes. The company is exploring new technologies, investing in its existing factories, and diversifying its sourcing to ensure it can continue to meet the demands of the market while upholding its commitment to quality and ethical practices.

Automation and Technology in New Balance Factories

New Balance is investing in automation and advanced manufacturing technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality. These technologies include:

• Robotics: Using robots to automate repetitive tasks.
• 3D Printing: Exploring the use of 3D printing for prototyping and small-scale production.
• Digital Design: Utilizing digital design tools to optimize shoe design and manufacturing processes.

Investing in Existing New Balance Manufacturing Locations

New Balance is committed to its existing factories, both in the United States and overseas. The company is investing in upgrades and expansions to improve capacity and efficiency. This demonstrates a long-term commitment to its workforce and the communities in which it operates.

Diversifying the New Balance Supply Chain

New Balance is also diversifying its supply chain to reduce its reliance on any single country or region. This helps mitigate risks associated with political instability, natural disasters, and economic fluctuations. By spreading its production across multiple locations, New Balance can ensure a more resilient and reliable supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Are all New Balance shoes made in the USA?

  No, not all New Balance shoes are made in the USA. While some models are proudly made in the United States, others are manufactured in countries like Vietnam, China, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom.
  * How can I tell if my New Balance shoes are made in the USA?
  

  Check the label inside the shoe. It will clearly state the country of origin. Look for phrases like “Made in USA.”
  * Why does New Balance manufacture shoes overseas?
  

  Manufacturing overseas allows New Balance to meet global demand, offer a range of price points, and access specialized manufacturing capabilities.
  * Is New Balance committed to ethical labor practices in its overseas factories?

  Yes, New Balance has a comprehensive code of conduct for its suppliers that addresses issues such as fair wages, safe working conditions, and the prohibition of child labor.
  * What is New Balance doing to promote sustainability in its supply chain?

  New Balance is implementing various initiatives to reduce waste, conserve energy, and promote the use of sustainable materials in its factories.
  * Does “Made in USA” mean 100% of the shoe is made in the USA?

  No, according to FTC standards, “Made in USA” means that at least 70% of the shoe’s value must originate from U.S. sources.

Conclusion

The journey of a New Balance shoe from raw materials to your feet is a complex one, involving a global network of factories and suppliers. While the “Made in USA” label carries significant weight and represents a commitment to American manufacturing, New Balance also relies on overseas production to meet the diverse needs of its global customer base. By embracing ethical labor practices, promoting sustainability, and investing in innovation, New Balance is striving to create high-quality shoes that you can feel good about wearing, regardless of where they are made. The New Balance supply chain, with its blend of domestic and international production, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality, value, and responsible manufacturing.