What do jewelry, bagels, orchids and surfboards have in common? How about handmade glass, honey, cosmetics, flags, beer, chocolate and tea?
All of these items are made in Monmouth County.
These items, and many others produced in the county, will be on display and available for purchase at the “Made in Monmouth” event to be held April 12 at Monmouth University, West Long Branch.
The event is being held to draw attention to businesses that manufacture or grow products in Monmouth County and to give people the opportunity to shop local, according to a press release.
“Monmouth County has a long and rich heritage of producing goods and services,” Freeholder Thomas A. Arnone said. “From our earliest days of lumber, food, iron and boat building, to today’s hightech graphics and the arts, Monmouth County has always been creative and productive, bringing top-quality merchandise to markets here and around the world.”
According to the press release, Keyport was home to Aeromarine, which converted military aircraft to civilian service beginning in 1921. And some of the nation’s largest uniform manufacturers were in Red Bank, Long Branch and Neptune City. A Wall Township company made NASCAR race cars, and there still is one of the most successful engine builders for custom cars, trucks and hot rods in Freehold.
“Today, Monmouth County produces sophisticated custom motorcycles, emergency vehicles, coffee, specialty teas and much more,” Arnone added. “I am proud that our residents can be creative and prosper while giving consumers the option of shopping locally.”
Made in Monmouth is organized by the Grow Monmouth team within the county’s Division of Economic Development.
Interested producers and manufacturers may request space online at www.visitmonmouth.com. Contact the Division of Economic Development at 732-431-7470 for more information.
The list of participating vendors will be published on the county website at www.visitmonmouth.com.