January 2014–United States Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker visited Focal Point’s Chicago headquarters on Friday, January 17. Focal Point has a partnership with the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC), which is part of the Department of Commerce, and was selected as an example of a thriving American manufacturer that could take advantage of the many programs under the Department. Secretary Pritzker spoke about her Department’s efforts to increase trade and investment, and support innovation in the manufacturing industry.
Dave Boulay, President of IMEC says “The Focal Point visit highlights a great example of manufacturing success in the United States, and in Chicago. Importantly, this tour and the discussion highlights a key to that success – continuously improving all aspects of the business. The Focal Point leadership keenly understands this and lives it. We enjoy being a partner in helping them achieve new standards of performance”
According to Chris Thornton, Focal Point’s president, “We are quite honored that Secretary Pritzker chose to visit Focal Point. The Thornton family has always been immensely proud of what our people have been able to accomplish, both on the shop floor and in the office, designing and manufacturing world class lighting products. For me, sustainable design is not just about the environment. It’s also about choosing products made in the USA. It’s about creating meaningful jobs here in our country so that our children enjoy a future better than our own.”
Focal Point is proud to have hosted Secretary Pritzker for her visit and tour.