I, Sharpie

7 months ago

The essay contrasts Leonard E. Read's 'I, Pencil' narrative with real-world production dynamics, using Sharpie pens as an example.
Sharpie's manufacturing moved to China in the early 2000s due to cost-cutting and trade policies but later returned to the U.S. due to supply chain uncertainties and tariffs.
Newell Brands' CEO, Chris Peterson, prioritized U.S. manufacturing, investing $2 billion in automation, making production faster and cost-competitive with China.
Automation and training programs at Sharpie's Tennessee facility increased wages by over 50% without reducing headcount.
The essay argues that business leaders and policy shape production outcomes, emphasizing the importance of domestic production and political economy.
Offshoring is critiqued for ignoring externalities like lost Social Security contributions, declining property values, and community impacts.
The piece advocates for policies that align private profit with public good, citing historical leaders' understanding of the 'Invisible Hand' as a result of policy, not mysticism.

Hasty Briefsbeta