Made in the U.S.A.

There was big brouhaha when we learned that the US Olympians in London were wearing Ralph Lauren clothing and accessories made in China. You have to admit, that was super stupid of the US Olympic Committee to go Chinese for our uniforms. Come on Ralph -- we gave you more credit than for all your cowboy gear (which perhaps was made in Argentina?). However, aside from that faux pas, there is an interesting trend that is worth noting. Discriminating brands are going "American Made." For example, Brooks Brothers now manufactures all of its ties in South Carolina, New York and Massachusetts. They also build 80% of their suits in the USA. Another example is Hamilton Shirts, which are now manufactured in Houston. In the old days, a label that said "Made in Italy" or "Made in France" had certain panache. But with most labels now trumpeting far-off-places like "Made in Mongolia," American-made goods feel special. This is very good news on the real estate industrial and manufacturing front.

Tony LoPinto is the Global Sector Leader of Korn/Ferry International's Real Estate Practice and founder of SelectLeaders. The views expressed in this article are the author's own.