Traditionally during winter months American Stone sells ice melt. There is a 29% profit margin and storing the pallets consumed space. The supply chain was an issue due to the product being out of stock from the dealer. This was not a robust method to earn income during the winter months. To offset the slow time of year, I introduced a new product selling hoodies. The hoodies brought in an additional $24 per hoodie versus $2 per bag of ice melt. Combining the two products, it was a great option.

Why did I consider this as an option for a stone company? This new concept was anything but traditional for a family-owned company that had been in business for over 70 years. The company is a longstanding American company that is stone strong, and patriotism is what sells with current market trends. This was also a viable option for mass distribution through online sales such as Amazon.

The hoodies have a high-profit margin and the test was to give each American Stone employee one for Christmas and get feedback. They and their families loved the quality and the look.