Shawn Fedorchuk: New Balance

Shawn Fedorchuk: New Balance “Made in America” (continued)

Skowhegan, Maine is only one of the towns in America that produces New Balance shoes. In fact, New Balance is the only major company to make more than 4 million pairs of athletic footwear per year in the USA. Because of this, New balance is able to employ American workers at their factories in Massachusetts and Maine. Additionally, they employ more than 7000 workers locally by purchasing footwear manufacturing materials from domestic suppliers.

Shawn Fedorchuk, New Balance (continued). New Balance was founded in 1906 by William J. Riley. Over time, the company has proven to be a well respected American sports footwear and apparel brand. Currently, the brand is known as New Balance Athletics, Inc. and its parent company, New Balance, Inc., both owned by Jim Davis. Both of these companies are headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.

New Balance has a major manufacturing presence  in the United States and the United Kingdom for the European market. Perhaps the most popular shoe models is the “990”. New Balance differentiates itself by manufacturing a great deal of its products within the United States. Also, many of the technical features of their products are standouts. For example, blended gel inserts, heel counters and a larger available size selection, especially for very narrow or wide feet. 

New Balance is a privately owned company, totaling 4.4 billion dollars in revenue in 2020 with 7000 employees.

New Balance is dedicated to elevating the athlete’s pursuit of excellence. Whether that means professional athletes or everyday people, New Balance promotes a healthy active lifestyle.The key to New Balance products is the ease of functionality and performance. Success has come by making shoes that are blend style with technology and handmade craftsmanship.

In 1906, William J. Riley, an Irish immigrant, founded the New Balance Arch Support Company. This was later registered as New Balance Arch Co., Inc. in the Boston area. Riley’s initial focus was on manufacturing arch supports and other accessories to improve shoe fit. 

The story goes that Riley’s first product, a three point flexible arch support, was initially designed by observing chickens in his yard. His idea was based on the fact that the chicken’s three-pronged foot gave it perfect balance. This, in turn, is why he came up with the name New Balance.

Later in 1927, Arthur Hall was hired as a salesman. In 1934 Hall became a business partner. Moving forward, the company did business as New Balance Athletic Shoe Company. Arthur Hall’s daughter Eleanor, and her husband Paul Kidd, purchased the business in 1956.