Made in America Store Founder Mark Andol Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy of Patriotism and Manufacturing
By WGRZ News Staff | July 17, 2025
Remembering a Pioneer of American Business
Mark Andol, the founder of the Made in America Store and CEO of General Welding & Fabricating, Inc., passed away unexpectedly on July 16, 2025. His death has sent ripples throughout the local community, Western New York industry, and the national movement for homegrown manufacturing. Andol, 60, was a tireless champion of American-made products, the U.S. workforce, and small business resilience. He is survived by his family, who have requested privacy as they mourn his loss, with memorial arrangements to be announced at a later time.
“His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the jobs he helped create, and the spirit of pride and patriotism he inspired across the nation,” the Andol family shared in an official statement.
The Vision and Impact of the Made in America Store
Established in 2010 in Elma, NY, amid the fallout of Andol losing a significant contract to outsourcing, the Made in America Store emerged as a symbol of hope for American manufacturers. The flagship store began with just 50 products, each verified to be 100% American-made, following a simple philosophy: “For Country, for Jobs, for You.” By 2025, the store boasted more than 9,000 items — from work boots to greeting cards — all sourced from U.S. suppliers. It has drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors, including tour buses from across the country, and garnered national media attention from networks like CNN, FOX, and NPR.
Andol’s dedication to authenticity and transparency resonated especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when supply chain disruptions underscored the importance of domestic manufacturing. The store’s growth paralleled a rise in consumer interest in buying American and bolstering local economies, a trend reflected in a 2024 Consumer Reports study showing that more than 80% of U.S. consumers now prefer to purchase American-made products, even if they cost more.
Revitalizing Local Manufacturing
Andol’s leadership extended far beyond his retail venture. As the owner and CEO of General Welding & Fabricating, Inc., he transformed the company from a modest operation, originally founded by his father in 1962, into a powerhouse of Western New York industry. The company employs over 70 workers, focusing on custom metal fabrication for the automotive, defense, and construction sectors. Through periods of economic downturn, Andol doubled down on the promise to never outsource jobs overseas, instead investing in upskilling employees and acquiring advanced CNC equipment.
In the wake of Andol’s advocacy, manufacturing in Erie County and throughout New York State saw a modest rebound over the past decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, manufacturing jobs in the Buffalo-Niagara region grew 5% between 2015 and 2024, reversing decades of decline. Andol’s relentless championing for “Made in USA” produced tangible economic benefits, with his companies sourcing materials locally and providing skilled labor opportunities.
A Voice for American Workers and National Media
Andol became one of the most outspoken proponents for American manufacturing on both local and national stages. He frequently met with political leaders, including visits from U.S. senators, representatives, and New York State officials at his Elma facility. He was featured as a successful case study of “reshoring” American industry in both academic journals and on national broadcasts, championing the cause to audiences as diverse as schoolchildren and CEOs.
Beyond business, he contributed time and financial support to local charities benefiting veterans and first responders, reflecting his deep-rooted commitment to community service. In 2016, Andol was named Buffalo Niagara Business Ethics Association Honoree, underscoring his reputation for integrity and fair labor practices.
The Road Ahead: Continuing Mark Andol’s Mission
Andol’s passing comes at a crucial moment for American manufacturing. In 2025, the U.S. manufacturing sector showed cautious optimism with job numbers recovering post-pandemic, driven by renewed supply chain investments and bipartisan support for reshoring. The Made in America movement, which Andol tirelessly promoted, has become both a business strategy for competitive U.S. brands and a patriotic rallying cry for consumers.
The Made in America Store and General Welding & Fabricating are expected to remain in family hands, with Andol’s children and long-time staff involved in day-to-day operations. In a recent message to employees, the family reiterated their commitment to the founding principles: American-made products, quality workmanship, and local jobs.
Tributes and Community Reflections
Condolences have poured in from the community, former employees, and manufacturers across the country. Local officials noted that without Andol’s vision, thousands of area jobs — directly and indirectly — could have been lost to offshoring. “Mark gave hope when there wasn’t much to be found for manufacturers in Western New York,” said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. “His loss will be deeply felt, but his influence is everlasting.”
The Andol family encourages those wishing to share messages or memories to contact (716) 652-0033. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to local workforce development organizations or veterans’ support groups — causes Andol championed during his lifetime.
