Shinola Comes To UK | Where American Is Made

By nature I'm a curious person, and with that comes thousands of bookmarked pages from years of having access to the internet. As a self-confessed Americana addict, admittedly a large portion of these bookmarks are US-based blogs, brand, manufacturers, magazines, restaurants, sign-makers, car dealers, deserted towns.....all tapping into my dream of an American road trip. It comes as no surprise that Detroit-based Shinola is one such brand. I'd take a guess that I found these guys through A Continuous Lean – like most of these things right?

Having met a few of the Shinola team, and seen their products close up at the Pop-Up Flea back in November, I was pleased to hear they've recently launched their UK webstore, as well as opening a flagship retail space in London. The Shinola name has been building up momentum over last couple of years, and it was great to share a cola with a brand that I'd only previously been aware of on the internet.

Shinola is committed to producing quality products and providing jobs in the city they love, Detroit. The city has a well-documented history of production, and Shinola's aim was to bring grass-roots manufacturing back to where it belongs. Providing fulfilling jobs and transferable skills is a big part of their business model, and something I wish I'd be exposed to more at an earlier age. For the parts that can't be made in Detroit, they source from other American manufacturers who share their vision.

Made in America - Build in Detroit 

The people of Shinola produce a well-rounded range of items; watches, wallets, bags, journals, stationery, sporting memorabilia + gifts and other Americana-assured products. You'll also find collaborations with local designers, sporting goods and even pet accessories. Not to forget their rather handsome range of bicycles. But for me it's their watches that really stand out, and Nik certainly agrees too, having tried one on back in November. This is where the brand really comes into its own, not only by the design but also the construction. Each watch comes with a lifetime guarantee, which is a testament to how strongly they believe in their handmade production methods - making it something which can be passed down to the next generation.

Next month I'll be heading down to the brand new Shinola flagship in London, on Newburgh Street, just off Carnaby Street, but until then you can explore their new UK website and get familiar with products and the people that make them happen.

This post is in partnership with Shinola. Thank you for taking the time to support the businesses that make this blog happen.

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