HEGEL - Is it really made in Norway ?

I imagine that every post in this thread was produced on a computer or phone made in China.

The phrase was "xenophobia/subtle racism". I would substitute bigotry for racism. A dictionary definition of xenophobia goes along the lines of fear or hatred of foreigners which qualifies as bigotry. And yes, I do think there is a stench of xenophobia in this thread.

If you're surprised that Hegel is not manufactured in Norway, then you didn't do your research. You have nobody to blame but yourself. That said, Hegel should proudly proclaim designed in Norway/made in China. Dozens of high end audio manufacturers have a similar provenance and are producing excellent quality products. Even in US built products the outsourcing of manufacturing is fairly common. The company may be headquartered in Utah or Colorado, but the component could actually be built by a company in California or Texas. Whether it's made in California or China, it's common sense that you have to thoroughly monitor the production process.

[Chinese are fully capable of building anything as well as anyone in the world.] Capable is one thing. Doing is another.

Would you buy a BMW if it was made in China?

So its racist if people don't want to buy Chinese goods because of poor build quality?

You won't see too many Chinese cars over here, though. They don't hold up well on the boat ride over. Its just too much of a strain. They can't take that kind on punishment.

Now that the Chinese are making cars, we don't make the worst ones anymore.

The Chinese re-named one of their cities to USA so they could put made in the USA on their products.

Regardless, I can't be one [racist]. I had real Chinese food last night for dinner, made by real Chinese people.

I have no idea what's in someone's heart, but these are the comments of a single person in this thread. I read these comments and I detect a anger against Chinese manufactured products. It's just assumed that Chinese products are of poor quality and there's the use of false information to support their belief. If racism, bigotry or xenophobia aren't an accurate description, then please provide a better word to describe this anger. Questioning Hegel's business practices is one thing, and I believe thoroughly legitimate, but IMO these comments are about something else. What is it really about?

This thread started out as a question about where Hegel equipment is made. I don't really see the relevancy of Hegel's customer service. Perhaps people who have had problems with customer service should start a separate thread?

Zd542, I was not the first to bring up racism. I will take credit for being the first to mention bigotry. I'd say more, but you will say I'm quoting you out of context.

Back on 8/31 I stated:

Hegel should proudly proclaim designed in Norway/made in China.

I'm glad you finally agree with me. Let peace reign.

Obviously some people in this thread care about where a product is made, but it's not clear if that's a major concern for the majority of Americans. Your computer, cell phone, flat screen, clothing, year-round fruits & vegetables etc. are all foreign sourced. Go to a local big box and look for domestically sourced products.

Regrading ethics, you are compromised whatever you buy. It's a global economy. The money and labor are fungible. Even when you buy "Made In America" component you rely upon this.

Sabai, do you think your daily denigration of Hegel has cost them a single sale?