5 American brands worth your money (just in time for USA 250)
As America’s 250th birthday approaches, shoppers are prioritizing U.S.-made products. Here are 5 standout American brands to start with.
Kyley Warren- In honor of America's 250th anniversary, USA TODAY is highlighting American-made brands.
- The series features brands like All-Clad, L.L. Bean, Burt's Bees, Weber, and Pelican.
- To be labeled "Made in USA," a product must be mostly or entirely manufactured and assembled in the United States.
There’s something undeniably inspiring about what’s been built in America—from towering skyscrapers and emerging technologies to iconic brands and the everyday products we rely on most. And with the country’s 250th anniversary just around the corner this July 4, more shoppers (myself included) are thinking a little differently about where we spend.
For me, that means prioritizing brands that manufacture right here in the U.S.—and investing in products that are made to last. Luckily, there’s no shortage of high-quality and highly-beloved American-made brands to choose from.
From heritage favorites like L.L. Bean to reader-loved cookware from All-Clad—and even newer brands earning cult followings like Ilia Beauty—American-made goods continue to deliver on quality, craftsmanship and durability.
So we’re making it easy to shop smarter.
In the lead-up to USA 250, the USA TODAY Shopping team is spotlighting 20 of the best American-made brands actually worth your money—covering every category from home and outdoors to beauty and beyond.
Each Friday, I’ll break down five brands you should know, including how they’re made and the standout products that deserve a spot in your cart.
5 made in USA brands to shop for USA 250
For our first installment, we’re starting strong with rugged Pelican luggage, summer-ready Weber grills, timeless L.L. Bean totes and more—all made right here in the USA.
1. All-Clad | Based in: Pennsylvania, USA
One of the most popular cookware brands among USA TODAY readers, All-Clad cookware sets are made in Pennsylvania, USA, specifically the bonded metal collections like the D3 and D5 stainless steel and Copper Core lines. This durable cookware set is built to last, with bundles that are perfect for all types of chefs and budgets.
2. L.L. Bean | Based in: Maine, USA
If you've been on TikTok, odds are you've seen this L.L. Bean Open Top Tote Bag; the accessory has gone viral on the social platform multiple times, with shoppers dubbing it the ultimate "everyday bag"—especially for the beach or any outdoor adventures. This canvas accessory is manufactured in Maine, USA, along with select L.L. Bean boots.
3. Burt's Bees | Based in: North Carolina, USA
American-made beauty essentials are definitely harder to come by, but they aren't nonexistent. Case in point: Burt's Bees is one of today's premier organic beauty brands, with products made in Durham, North Carolina. From nourishing lip treatments to lotions, there's something for everyone to shop.
4. Weber | Based in: Illinois, USA
Treat the outdoorsman in your life to a hot buy they'll be able to grill on all summer long. Many Weber grills are engineered in the brand's Chicago headquarters, including this Original Kettle Charcoal Grill.
5. Pelican | Based in: California, USA
Hard on luggage? Pelican's ATX and Storm hard-sided travel cases might just be the perfect solution for you. They're manufactured and assembled in both California and Massachusetts. These failsafe buys are great for frequent travelers ISO trusted, durable suitcases that can handle wherever your next adventure takes you.
What does it mean if a product has a "Made in USA" label on it?
In order for a product to have the "Made in USA" label or be considered American-made, the item must have all of its manufacturing—or at least the majority of it—based within the United States of America; additionally, the final assembly of the product must occur within the United States, and foreign content or components must be minimal.
Are these brands fully American made?
The short answer is yes and no (it's complicated). Some American-made brands manufacture entirely in the U.S., while others produce specific lines domestically. All of the brands included in this guide are based in the United States of America, but some may source a small fraction of their materials from other countries; those retailers are specified accordingly.
Why buy American-made products?
There are so many reasons to shop and buy American whenever you can. For starters, you're often guaranteed higher quality-control, as the products and materials can be traced back directly to manufacturers within the United States that are expected to uphold certain quality and production standards—as well as more ethical manufacturing that isn't always guaranteed when you order items from abroad.
Additionally, shopping American-made brands helps contribute to local job support—so you can enjoy better-made products and support your fellow Americans in the process.
Are American-made products more expensive?
Yes—generally, American-made products can be up to 20% to 50% more expensive than imported options; however, the USA also has stricter quality and manufacturing standards, as well as varying environmental regulations. You may pay more upfront, but you'll also get more longterm.
What is America 250?
America 250 is the nationwide celebration planned for July 4 this year, which commemorates the 250th birthday of the United States of America.
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