CEO of Mar-flex Waterproofing and Building Products Brett Oakley arrived at the National Hardware Show with just one thing on his mind. Oakley is trying to generate revenue in a down economy for his Middletown, Ohio company. He noticed one thing upon arriving at the show this week, the amount of international companies bringing products. “International governments, like China and India are buying booth space by the hundreds at this year’s show,” Oakley remarked. “It is nearly impossible to compete with a government.” Oakley hopes his quality products, such as the only 100% recycled drainage board in the marketplace, will outweigh the other companies clout.

The United States utilizes a primarily free economy, therefore companies like Mar-flex don’t get financial help selling American made products, even though the governments of China and India are pouring resources into their companies’ showings. “It isn’t difficult to compete with international companies, but when they are supported by the resources of their national governments, it is nearly impossible to be seen out there.” If the United States hopes to recover from its economic condition, a prudent action would be the support of American made products, thus contributing to job creation, decreasing unemployment, and increasing tax revenue.

Oakley is hopeful, with a smile and a sales “sense” that has led him this far in life, he’s making his own showing at booth 4948 at the trade show. “Our products are not only American made, but advance the science of waterproofing. We are constantly researching and developing more effective and productive methods.” So far, the show has only barely begun, but Oakley has been swamped by interested patrons, including international companies, such as Canada’s own “Home Hardware Stores Limited”.