Norton's U.S.A. in Barrington celebrates 10-year anniversary

Deborah Leydig was inspired to open an American made only general store back in 2003 after starring in the adaptation of "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America" by Barbara Ehrenreich at Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago.

She saw that low wages and having to work multiple jobs just to keep food on the table was in part due to sending the manufacturing of consumer goods off shore.

For four years, Deborah researched products that were made in the United States and, on June 13, 2007, opened her general store in a renovated barn in Barrington.

"When I look back and I talk to customers that have been with me since the beginning, they were worried I wasn't going to make it because I had so few items to sell," Deborah said.

"I started buying from 20 companies and now order from over 500. I could fill a Home Depot size store with all the products I've found over these past 10 years."

Her biggest problem now is finding the space to put everything.

From housewares to toys and garden to clothing, Norton's U.S.A. is actually a small department store with something for everyone in your family and home.

As you walk through Norton's U.S.A., you are amazed at the diversity and quality of the items she carries. Their website was launched in 2014, and now NortonsUSA.com ships American made products around the world.

Norton's U.S.A. has also become an important part of the community, and Deborah says that this is one of the best parts of owning a local business.

"You feel so connected to the families and other businesses. You strive to bring the very best in customer service and enjoyment to the community through your store and the events you have."

Deborah was awarded the Athena Award in 2016 by the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce for her leadership qualities and being a role model for other women in business.

To celebrate the 10th anniversary, Norton's U.S.A. held a weeklong schedule of raffles, events and sales along with free Bingo and movie nights.

Norton's U.S.A. is at 400 Lageschulte St., in Barrington. For information, call the store at (847) 382-8872 or visit www.nortonsusa.com.

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