Manufacturing Talks
There are millions of cool stories in manufacturing. Your host, Jim Vinoski, helps share them by talking to the people who are making them happen. Manufacturing is where the rubber meets the road. There's no hiding. You're either making good products people will buy for enough to keep you in business, or you're not. Meet the amazing folks who thrive in that survival-of-the-fittest world.
Manufacturing Talks
From the book *American Manufacturing:* Worksman Cycles is the oldest bike company in the U.S.!
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Your host Jim Vinoski discusses the history and business evolution of Worksman Cycles, which is Chapter 2 of his new book, *American Manufacturing: 22 Tales of Integrity, Ingenuity, and the Modest Heroes Who Built a Nation.*
Company History
Jim details the origins of Worksman Cycles, founded by Morris Worksman in Manhattan in 1898. Originally a dry goods store owner, Morris developed delivery bicycles and tricycles to assist local vendors.
The company achieved nationwide scale after securing a contract with the Good Humor ice cream company to create specialized delivery vehicles.
During World War II, the company pivoted to manufacturing maintenance tricycles for industrial and military plants, such as Lockheed.
Business Strategy
Jim highlights key strategic decisions that shaped the company's current market position.
Niche Focus: The company declined a major purchase order from Toys R Us in the late 20th century to avoid low-margin consumer bike production and stay focused on their core expertise.
Relocation: In 2015, due to taxes and regulations in the New York City area, the company moved its bicycle production assembly to Conway, North Carolina, while maintaining headquarters in New York.
Product Range: Current offerings include maintenance tricycles, e-bike add-ons, consumer tricycles, and purpose-built models for special needs individuals.
Future Outlook
Jim concludes by mentioning upcoming topics for the show.
Worksman Cycles: https://worksman.com/
Buy the book!! https://www.manufacturingtalks.com/american-manufacturing-book