Monday, September 24, 2012

One of Shakespeare’s most quoted lines is: “What's in a name? That which we call a rose. By any other name would smell as sweet." It’s from the famous  balcony scene in the Act II of Romeo and Juliet, of course.


 With all due respect to Shakespeare’s brilliance, I’m especially proud of the name of our fall sales event -- the “Rediscover America Sale”-- because it fits the occasion so well.  In addition to deep discounts on 13 shoe styles (one for each of the original colonies), we offer 14.92% (yes, that’s 1492) off all Allen Edmonds branded products in the store and on-line.  That includes belts, socks, silk ties, cotton shirts, shearling leather coats, and leather wallets, briefcases and carry-on bags.

 We’ve been doing some rediscovering of America on our own and have found U.S. manufacturers to make these products in partnership with our design team.   As you would expect from Allen Edmonds, and from American manufacturers, the quality is first rate and the value is unequaled.  We’ve eliminated the middle man by going directly to the manufacturers to develop these products – passing the resulting savings on to you.  So, in addition to the superior shoes and great belts you’ve come to expect from Allen Edmonds, check out the other products before the sale ends on Columbus Day.  You won’t be disappointed in the quality, the styling or the price.

There’s more good news in Rediscover America.  Apparel and leather goods production capacity is returning to our shores.  When we held the first Rediscover America Sale three years ago, there wasn’t nearly as much buzz about “Made in USA” in the apparel business as there is today, or as many producers to choose from.  Let’s hope it’s the beginning of a growing and continuous trend.  We intend to do our part to support American manufacturers as we grow our product line into apparel.  Our expanded plans for 2013 are taking shape and I can’t wait to show you what we’ve been working on.  It’s both fun and gratifying to sell great products that also build American jobs through their success. 

So, sorry Juliet – names do matter, at least sometimes.
Best Wishes,



Paul D. Grangaard

President & CEO
Allen Edmonds Shoe Corporation