Q&A talks with state Rep. Caroline B. Simmons (D-Stamford), about a new state law creating a “Connecticut-Made” program that aims to spotlight manufacturers and retailers.
Get Instant Access to This Article
Subscribe to Hartford Business Journal and get immediate access to all of our subscriber-only content and much more.
- Critical Hartford and Connecticut business news updated daily.
- Immediate access to all subscriber-only content on our website.
- Bi-weekly print or digital editions of our award-winning publication.
- Special bonus issues like the Hartford Book of Lists.
- Exclusive ticket prize draws for our in-person events.
Click here to purchase a paywall bypass link for this article.
Q&A talks with state Rep. Caroline B. Simmons (D-Stamford), about a new state law creating a “Connecticut-Made” program that aims to spotlight manufacturers and retailers.
Q: A new law taking effect in October will require the state to develop a “Connecticut-Made” logo businesses can use to promote products made or produced in the state. What was the impetus behind the bill? A: The purpose of this initiative is to establish a Connecticut-Made logo designation, to promote local businesses that make products in our state. This CT-Made logo will be an excellent way to showcase the many wonderful products and goods that are locally made, as well as provide consumers with information on which products are made locally, so that we can support local jobs. Whether it is Munson's Chocolates in Bolton, the Hartford Denim Co., or Luke's Toy Factory in Danbury, there are many thriving local businesses that make their products here in our state.
This CT-Made logo designation will support local jobs, create pride for small businesses, encourage locally made products, and strengthen our local economy. Once the CT-Made logo is designed, it will be available for manufacturers and retailers to use as a means of promoting products with their origins in the Nutmeg State.
Q: How is CT-Made going to be defined? Will certain thresholds need to be met? Also, there seems to be no penalties for misuse of the designation. Is this going to be an “honor” program with no means of enforcement?
A: You are correct, there is no official mechanism for enforcing how the logo is used. While the state Department of Economic and Community Development is working to develop the logo, the agency will also establish guidelines for its use, including the types of products that can use it and whether the manufacturer can alter its proportions, colors or other details of the logo and its design.
Q: Is this program modeled after similar programs in other states? If so, what are some of the differences? What are the benefits of companies choosing this designation?
A: At least 24 states have programs that brand and market products made in their state. Most states try to build a brand name or image that symbolizes the culture and heritage unique to that state.
There are many benefits for companies and manufacturers choosing to use the logo. First, it makes state residents aware that what they are buying has its roots in their home state and thus generates local pride and support for local businesses. Second, it encourages consumers to buy from businesses that make their products locally, thereby supporting more job creation in our state. Third, it benefits the tourism industry as many tourists will be able to purchase unique and locally made Connecticut products as a keepsake.
Q: The new law eliminates the DECD commissioner's authority to make grants to people and businesses that promote and market Connecticut-Made products. What's the thinking behind this step?
A: The reason for eliminating DECD grants is simple — there are not enough funds available right now. We hope businesses will not require grants as a premise for making use of the logo.
Q: What's the thinking behind not using a third party to develop the logo? Will it hurt the law's efforts to promote the state if a professional logo isn't developed? How much is being saved by not contracting this work out?
A: Given our difficult fiscal climate, we did not want to add an additional cost. As such, we confirmed with DECD that they will be able to create this logo within their existing agency resources and within available appropriations.
Q: What's the timeline on the logo and guidelines? The law is effective Oct. 1. Does that mean the logo needs to be ready by then?
A: Oct. 1 marks the date that DECD will be required to move forward with the concept and design of the CT-Made logo.